Warm welcome for Education Scotland chief on trip north

THE CHIEF executive of the Scottish Government agency overseeing education in Scotland was in Shetland recently to get a first-hand look at learning in the isles.

Education Scotland chief Gillian Hamilton said it was a “pleasure” to visit schools and other learning settings in Shetland, as well as meet up with the council’s children’s services team.

SIC education and learning manager Sam Flaws (left), Education Scotland chief executive Gillian Hamilton (centre) and SIC’s children’s services director Helen Budge.

SIC education and learning manager Sam Flaws (left), Education Scotland chief executive Gillian Hamilton (centre) and SIC’s children’s services director Helen Budge.

“This is part of my wider commitment to spending time in local authorities and making sure that I really understand the different education contexts across Scotland so that we can ensure Education Scotland is providing relevant support,” she said.

Reflecting on the visit, Hamilton said: “I received the warmest welcome from every person I met who were so proud and enthusiastic about their role in making the best possible difference to every single learner in Shetland through learning and teaching.

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“I also heard from engaged learners who were delighted to show me their learning, their schools, and outdoor learning opportunities in one of the most beautiful parts of Scotland.

“And…as colleagues at the Bridges Project told me…noo dat du’s found dee gaet…I’ll definitely be back!”

Director of Shetland Islands Council’s children’s services Helen Budge said it was a “pleasure to have Gillian here and to be able to showcase the amazing work our staff deliver to the bairns in Shetland”.