Russell unveils reforms for post-16 education

The Scottish Government has outlined its aims to improve post-16 education following a public consultation on reforms.

Education secretary Michael Russell hopes to widen apprenticeship access to degree level, allow college mergers where they are wanted and make transition easier between school, training, college or university.

He said plans for a £7,000 minimum income for students in higher education were on track, with details expected in summer.

He told the Scottish Parliament: “This government is focused on delivering the best education for our young people, protecting free access to undergraduate education, reforming student support and building on the international excellence of our research reputation.”

the National Union of Students Scotland welcomed the commitment to a minimum wage. Union president Robin Parker said: “We look forward to continuing to work with the Scottish Government to deliver better support for students and to delivering an entitlement to support for college students.”

Alastair Sim, director of Universities Scotland, said: “We share the fundamental belief that the learner should be the focus of and reason for any and all necessary change in Scotland’s post-16 education.”