Cabinet Secretary's Address

In this opening keynote address, Cabinet Secretary for Education and Lifelong Learning Fiona Hyslop MSP will discuss the Government’s ambition for a Smarter Scotland.

'Education is the key to achieving this Government’s ambition of a smarter Scotland. I want every pupil, student and worker to have a chance to learn, develop new skills and play a full part in it.

Teachers, lecturers and education specialists all have a crucial role in developing the skills, talents and capabilities of our future generations. Curriculum for Excellence goes to the heart of what we want to achieve when we talk about improving education outcomes for young people. This aims to provide a coherent, more flexible and enriched curriculum for young people between 3 and 18.

It is a highly ambitious programme of reform – and rightly so. I have high ambitions for Scotland and Curriculum for Excellence has a vital role to play in preparing our young people to take their place in a modern society and economy. It allows them to gain the knowledge and skills for learning, skills for life and skills for work that they need to flourish.'

Cabinet Secretary on Glow

On Wednesday 17 September, I hosted a live Chat session on Glow. Teachers from across Scotland joined me  in discussions covering  Curriculum for Excellence and Glow. A full transcript of the Chat session is available.
(Glow login required). 

Following this, on Wednesday 24 September I will be at the Scottish Learning Festival, giving my keynote address on these issues.  Use 'Add seminar to wish list' link on right hand side of this page to register for this seminar. 

Also there will be an opportunity for comments, questions and reflections from the audience following my address.  You can also submit questions in advance. Any questions not dealt with on the day will have an answer posted following the event (Glow login required).

I look forward to our discussions.

Fiona Hyslop MSP
Cabinet Secretary for Education and Lifelong Learning

Fiona Hyslop was born in Ayrshire in 1964 and was brought up in her early years in England before returning to Scotland and graduating from Glasgow University with an MA (Hons) in Economic History and sociology.

She was elected a Lothians MSP in 1999 and was latterly the Shadow Minister for Children, Education and Lifelong Learning and a member of the Parliament’s Education Committee.

She is married with three children and lives in Linlithgow.