COSLA has called for sustained investment, partnership and local flexibility to help every child and young person thrive in its latest white paper ‘Local Government’s Vision for the Future of School Aged Learning in Scotland.’
Local Government leaders have today set out a forward-looking vision for the future of school-age learning in Scotland - one rooted in inclusion, wellbeing and preparing young people for an increasingly complex and changing world.
Education and childcare already represent a significant national investment, with almost £8 billion spent directly - accounting for over half of local authority revenue expenditure. This is in addition to the wide range of services that support children and families. Councils are proud of the central role they play in supporting communities and, building on Scotland’s strong and progressive education values, remain committed to ensuring that investment delivers the best possible outcomes for all learners.
Children and young people are growing up at a time of rapid social, economic and technological change. Encouragingly, attainment has recovered to pre-pandemic levels, vocational pathways have expanded significantly, and schools and their partners continue to innovate in response to evolving needs.
At the same time, rising levels of additional support needs, persistent child poverty, workforce pressures and long-term wellbeing challenges underline the importance of joined-up, well-resourced and locally delivered solutions. Local Government believes the future of learning lies in strengthening what works, improving coherence across policy and partners, and maintaining a clear focus on the outcomes that matter most for children and young people.
Local Government is ready to lead and collaborate - alongside schools, families, employers, national partners and communities - to shape a learning system that is resilient, inclusive and future-focused.
COSLA Children and Young People Spokesperson, Cllr Tony Buchanan, said:
“Local Government has long been committed to working with partners to shape a learning system that puts children and young people at its heart.
“This vision builds on Scotland’s strong foundations and focuses on collaboration, local flexibility and sustained investment so every learner can thrive, whatever their circumstances and wherever they live.
“With sustained investment, strong partnerships and trust in local delivery, Scotland can continue to build an education system that supports children and young people to feel valued, confident and equipped to contribute positively to their communities and to the wider world.
Notes to editors
COSLA serves as the representative voice of Scottish Local Government. COSLA spokespersons do not operate on a party-political basis; instead, they represent the collective views of Scottish Local Government.
White Papers are designed to influence the thinking of all political parties in the lead-up to the Scottish Parliament election. They bring together previously agreed, cross-party COSLA policy positions on specific issues.
