The Scottish Conservatives have called for a 'reset' of the Curriculum for Excellence (CfE), arguing that while its principles are sound, its implementation has been flawed. In a newly published paper, the party outlines five key recommendations aimed at improving the delivery of Scotland's education framework.
The proposals include improving clarity and accountability, addressing the teacher shortage crisis by opening new routes into teaching, slashing excessive guidance and paperwork, reforming Education Scotland's dual role in curriculum development and inspection, and extending school autonomy to give headteachers more decision-making power.
Scottish Conservative education spokeswoman Liz Smith said the party's paper followed extensive consultation with teachers, education experts, and parents. 'There was general agreement that the principles which underpin Curriculum for Excellence are sound,' she said, but added that implementation had been 'fraught with problems' and 'muddled at best and chaotic at worst' under the SNP.
The Scottish government responded by stating that CfE provides 'a well-rounded education' and is 'broadly endorsed in Scotland'. A spokesman highlighted rising teacher numbers, new routes into teaching, and efforts to simplify the curriculum framework. 'Our education reforms will create a school and teacher-led system,' he said, emphasising that decisions will be made by those working directly with young people.
The EIS, Scotland's largest teaching union, agreed that CfE's founding principles remain sound, but said the main challenges have been caused by inadequate support in terms of staffing and resources. General secretary Larry Flanagan noted a 'deficit of support from Education Scotland' as a contributing factor.
