Our purpose

Published
20/08/2026
Last updated
04/09/2026

His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Education (HMIE) provides independent inspection of education in Scotland. It supports His Majesty’s Chief Inspector of Education in Scotland to carry out functions under the Education (Scotland) Act 2025.

Our purpose

We: 

  • carry out inspections of relevant educational establishments as set out in the Act. We publish our inspection findings to ensure transparency and accountability
  • assess the quality of education to support improvement and provide assurance to learners, their families and carers, educators and Parliament
  • promote improvement by identifying and sharing effective practice
  • gather evidence during inspections to inform national policy

In carrying out these functions, we are committed to acting in ways that support fairness, inclusion, equality and positive outcomes for all children and learners, recognising the diversity of Scotland's communities and educational contexts.