Recommendations for literacy and English

This report offers valuable insights and practical support to everyone involved in the design of literacy and English programmes and in the teaching and learning of literacy and English. We encourage educators at all levels to reflect carefully on the findings and consider how they might inform and enhance practice.

Improving literacy and English education across Scotland is the responsibility of all involved in education. It will require a shared commitment and collaborative effort. For this reason, our recommendations are for schools and settings, local authorities, national bodies, and the Scottish Government to:

• work together in driving the essential improvements

• plan progressive programmes and courses in literacy and English that fully support children and young people’s learning and skill development

• find meaningful ways to engage children and young people in leading their own learning in literacy and English

To support this, they should be involved in decision-making about what and how they learn:

• All staff must ensure that children and young people are explicitly taught listening and talking skills and that these are progressively developed.

• All teachers in secondary establishments must embed literacy as a responsibility for all. To do so, they must understand each young person’s abilities and areas for development in literacy.

• Continue to enhance practitioners’ and teachers’ skills in supporting children and young people who require additional support with their literacy, and language and communication skills through high-quality professional learning.

• Promote reading for enjoyment by ensuring children and young people have access to a wide range of high-quality texts that reflect the diverse world they live in and suit their age and stage.

• Continue to improve approaches to assessment at all stages and build on existing good moderation practice.