Conclusion

Scots should think twice before accepting biassed attacks on Scottish education from Unionist politicians and the Unionist media that parrot their claims. That does not mean there are no challenges - of course there are. But despite that, Scotland has an education system to be proud of. Scottish pupils’ reading levels in the international rankings table PISA are virtually the same as the ones England brags about. Scottish pupils are also offered more access to music and other arts education.

Scotland also does better in terms of the attainment and life chances of the poorest and most deprived cohort. Providing free school meals to all under tens is also likely to feed into better educational outcomes.

Scotland has chosen to raise teachers’ salaries to a level more commensurate with their expertise and responsibilities. Over time this will positively impact staff retention and performance and attract more people to the profession.