First Minister John Swinney is facing intense criticism over the state of Scotland's education system, following a significant decline in international rankings for pupil performance in reading and mathematics.
Accusations that the Scottish National Party (SNP) has overseen the system's 'greatest failure' and 'trashed' educational prospects for young people were leveled during a fiery session at Holyrood. Critics pointed to the latest Programme for International Student Assessment (Pisa) study for 2025, which revealed that the performance of 15-year-old Scottish students in reading and mathematics has fallen to a record low. While science scores showed improvement, all three measures have declined since Pisa testing began in 2000.
Scottish pupils now lag over a year behind their peers in England in science and mathematics, and by six months in reading. Scottish Tory leader Russell Findlay asserted that Swinney's assessment of the system as 'essentially stable' demonstrated he was 'utterly delusional,' adding that many pupils struggle with basic literacy upon finishing primary school.
Reform UK Scotland leader Malcolm Offord described the situation as a 'national emergency' and 'the ruination of a once proud nation.' He highlighted that English pupils, under Conservative policies, rank in the world's Top Ten for reading, maths, and science, while Scottish students continue to decline. Offord also criticized Swinney's past roles as education and finance minister, citing issues such as college cuts and the handling of pandemic-era grading.
Swinney defended his record, expressing pride in Scottish education and highlighting government investment aimed at closing the attainment gap and ensuring excellence and equity. He accused critics of insulting teachers and of lacking understanding, referencing a former government's impact on public finances.
Lib Dem leader Alex Cole-Hamilton urged ministers to acknowledge shortcomings and accept responsibility, stating that international assessments could not be ignored and that Scotland's education was no longer among the world's best.
Responding to claims that Scottish young people face a competitive disadvantage in the job market, Swinney cited positive statistics on pupil destinations and university uptake. He also deflected criticism, remarking on his opponents' past political endorsements and accusing Reform UK of spreading divisive rhetoric.