Improving Attainment, Tackling Inequality and Strengthening National Standards

As an amendment to motion S7M-01963 in the name of Katherine Sangster (Improving Attainment, Tackling Inequality and Strengthening National Standards), leave out from first “recognises” to end and insert: “celebrates the achievements of Scotland's young people, as reflected in the 2026 National Qualifications results with academic passes up at every level and a 121% increase in vocational awards since 2019; notes that there is a joint record number of young people in positive follow-up destinations such as college, work and apprenticeships, and more young Scots gaining a place at university,- including a record number from deprived backgrounds; recognises the contribution of Scotland's dedicated and hardworking teaching and school staff; notes the need to improve the experience and attainment for all young people in Scotland and believes that achievement in education is a key factor in breaking the cycle of poverty, and affirms that, in the pursuit of excellence and equity, the Scottish Government should drive meaningful reform across the education system, including by working with parties across the Chamber to identify priorities for school assessments such as the Scottish Survey of Literacy and Numeracy and Scottish National Standardised Assessments, and embrace the opportunity of public sector reform to enhance performance, reduce unwarranted variation and empower school leaders across Scotland.”