Following the May election, the new government may consider changes in the administration of education. There is the possibility of substantial savings but, more important, Curriculum for Excellence seems unlikely to achieve its full potential without some such change.

That we have a situation in which a quarter of Scots adults have basic problems of literacy and numeracy and there is a disproportionate number of unemployable Neets is rationale enough for changes.

Evidence has emerged recently suggesting Scotland’s index of social mobility is among the lowest of constituent regions of the UK. Yet most Scots have traditionally regarded their education service as the prime agent of socio-economic advancement.

Does a population of 5 million require 32 education directorates? They should be encouraged to merge where possible.

A smaller number of directorates should transfer responsibility for teaching and learning, with the associated budgets for staffing and resources, to locally-based trusts comprising elected stakeholders. These would be advised by an education official but have full operational autonomy.

Dr W.J. MacCulloch, Causewayend Crescent, Aberchirder.