Alan Cameron's Edublog Learning in the 3rd Millennium 

Scottish Education Secretary Michael Russell has confirmed today that, following management board advice this afternoon, there will be no delay to the roll out of Curriculum for Excellence in Secondary schools this August.

Mr Russell has also confirmed that planning for the new qualifications, which are not due for four years, will continue – based on the advice of the overwhelming majority of Management Board members. However, Mr Russell will also continue his discussions with the EIS – who are the one body on the board in favour of a one year delay.

Mr Russell said:

“I have immediately accepted the Management Board’s unanimous advice that there be no delay in present plans for the roll out in secondary schools this August. Curriculum for Excellence is making a real difference in our classrooms at primary level and it will be of great benefit in secondary schools. There should be no further doubt about what is going to happen.

“I also concur that we need to continue to build teachers’ confidence in the process of change. I think the evidence from the primary sector is that when teachers are involved in delivering the curriculum they very quickly gain expertise and I will continue to do everything I can to ensure secondary teachers get the same positive support and experience the same benefits.

“I have already seen examples of Curriculum for Excellence in action in schools across Scotland and of excellent planning and I am determined that it will continue on track. That is why I issued my ten point plan three weeks ago – all these actions will further secure the full implementation of the new curriculum .

“I am also minded to accept the advice from the Board with regard to plans for the new qualifications. But as they are some four years away there is time and opportunity to discuss with the EIS – who were alone in not agreeing with this advice from the Board. I will be asking the EIS to enter into constructive and detailed dialogue with me and my officials as soon as possible so that we can address their continuing concerns.

“I am grateful to the Board for its hard work today and up to today. Much remains to be done but this important moment will help to drive forward the new curriculum for the benefit of all Scotland’s young people and indeed for the benefit of the nation’s prospects.”