What steps it is taking to improve the interface between primary and secondary education.

I announced on 20 September that I intend to revise the current system of assessment to ensure that a coherent integrated system is in operation in both primary and secondary schools. A key issue is the transition between primary and secondary school and the measures that I announced are designed to ensure an improved interface between primary and secondary school.Education authorities manage collaboration amongst associated schools' groups and there are good examples where joint planning and teaching of programmes in specific subjects has improved pupils' transition from P7 to S1. Recent revision of 5-14 guidelines, for example in Environmental Studies and Modern European Languages, should support and improve collaborative planning by identifying lines of progression more clearly. HM Inspectors of Education use published quality indicators to evaluate links between primary and secondary schools as part of school inspections. The School Improvement Framework will provide schools with information on their progress in meeting targets related to the National Priorities for education, also using quality indicators. This will allow better feedback on the learning and achievements of P7 pupils, ensuring more effective provision and support for pupils as they enter secondary school.