This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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National Debate on Education report card
09/10/2002
Comprehensive schools and a broad curriculum are seen as key strengths of the Scottish education system but there is room for innovation and change in other areas.
These were some of the findings from an independent analysis of responses to the National Debate on Education, published today. More than 20,000 people are estimated to have taken part in the Debate since its launch in March.
Speaking in Parliament, Education Minister Cathy Jamieson said:
"I said from the start that this would not be a traditional consultation process. I'm continuing in that vein today by publishing Edinburgh University's analysis so that everyone can see what has been said during the Debate.
"Some strong, positive messages came through from the responses. Education matters to people, they strongly value the Scottish comprehensive system and the broad based curriculum.
"But there are hard messages too about the need for improvements. Concerns were raised about the pace of change, the level of resources for schools and the effects of indiscipline. There were calls for greater curriculum flexibility and more local control of decisions.
"I will drive forward an agenda of continuous improvement in our edcuation education service. Change for change's sake would be in no-one's interest - but I am equally clear that stability must not mean stagnation.
"Over the next few months, we will develop our full response to the views and questions expressed. I want teachers, parents and other education professionals to work with us to create the stable framework that people want. To find ways of giving more flexibility to organise learning and teaching at local level while keeping pupils at the centre of schools and schools at the heart of their communities.
"I want a shared vision for the future that ensures every school is a centre of excellence."
A team of researchers from Edinburgh University, led by Professor Pamela Munn, were commissioned to analyse responses to the National Debate on Education. Their summary report will be sent out to all respondents and will be distributed to schools. Two more detailed reports on this preliminary analysis are also available. All the reports can be read and downloaded from the National Debate website www.scotland.gov.uk/nationaldebate/ .
The Debate was launched on 20 March 2002, and the deadline for feedback was 12 July. Briefing packs were sent to every school and education authority in Scotland, and to over 200 organisations who intended to hold National Debate events. Around 800 events were held in total. A hotline number and website supported the Debate.
More detailed analysis of the responses will continue. The Executive will publish its own response in 2003.