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EDUCATING FOR EXCELLENCE: Choice and Opportunity
The Executive's Response to the National Debate
MODERN SCHOOLS
WHAT PEOPLE SAID - There were many concerns about lack of resources.
- For pupils especially, the physical environment of the schools is very important. Some school spaces do not assist effective learning and teaching.
- Ageing buildings make pupils feel that education is not valued by society.
- The benefits of out of school learning and the importance of other facilities were widely recognised. Pupils in particular mentioned the benefits of school trips and work placements.
KEY COMMENTS MADE - Teachers want more control over how school funds are spent.
- Pupils want more resources for new furniture, more books, more computers, improved playgrounds and personal lockers.
- Bigger classrooms and better sports facilities were common suggestions.
OUR VISION FOR THE FUTURE - Every school as a centre of excellence in terms of accommodation and facilities.
- Excellent school design across Scotland.
- Effective local management of schools, with headteachers in control of their budgets and taking decisions for their school.
- Use modern technology to support learning and teaching. Provide school managers with modern business skills and equipment.
- Improved facilities for study support and after school activity.
- Improved accessibility for pupils, staff and others with disabilities.
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FIRST STEPS FOR ACTION
> Improve the condition of school buildings and develop new schools to create a school estate in which all schools have the right facilities, are well designed, well built and provide a flexible environment which continues to meet future needs.
> Complete the programme to build or substantially refurbish 300 schools by 2009.
> Work with education authorities and other stakeholders to plan how to make further improvements to school buildings, and make sure that they are well maintained.
> Produce revised guidelines on Devolved School Management, with greater controlover budgets to headteachers. Introduce greater flexibility for schools and education authorities through local agreements for excellence.
> Consider what additional powers may be required to ensure underperformance is tackled.
> Maximise the potential of Broadband and other modern communications technology to enhance learning in schools. Build a single Scottish Intranet for all schools to provide on-line services to pupils and teachers.
> Use the Scottish Intranet to extend availability of distance learning packages.
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