Cabinet Secretary for Education and Skills

The Cabinet Secretary for Education and Skills, commonly referred to as the Education Secretary, is a position in the Scottish Government Cabinet responsible for all levels of education in Scotland. The incumbent is Jenny Gilruth, who assumed office on 29 March 2023 and was reappointed on 8 May 2024.
The Cabinet Secretary is supported by the Minister for Higher and Further Education, Graeme Dey, and the Minister for Children, [Young People and Keeping the Promise], Natalie Don.

History

The position was created in 1999 as the Minister for Children and Education; it was renamed as the Minister for Education, Europe and External Affairs in 2000 and given more responsibilities; those were taken away from the post in 2001 and it was renamed again as the Minister for Education and Young People. The current position of Cabinet Secretary was created following the 2007 election.

Overview

Responsibilities

The responsibilities of the Cabinet Secretary for Education and Skills include:

childcare and wraparound care
school standards, quality and improvement
school infrastructure and staffing
closing the attainment gap
Curriculum for Excellence development
National Improvement Framework
teaching profession
removing barriers to education and supporting digital inclusion
Education Maintenance Allowance
behaviour and measures to combat bullying
Protection of Vulnerable Groups
Education Scotland
school learning and support
education analytical services
education strategy and performance
additional support needs, and support for learning
inclusive education
lifelong learning
cross-government support for learning disabilities, autism and neurodiversity
National Digital Academy
positive destinations and school leavers' toolkit

Public bodies

The following public bodies report to the Cabinet Secretary for Education and Skills:

List of office holders

Minister for Children and Education

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