Current status: Answered by Fiona Hyslop on 27 November 2008
To ask the Scottish Executive when it will provide further information on its intentions for the Scottish Science and Language Baccalaureates.
Today I am announcing that the specifications for the Scottish Science and Language Baccalaureates will be as follows:
Both the Baccalaureates will comprise two Advanced Higher courses, one Higher course and an Interdisciplinary Project, which will comprise 80 hours of study at Advanced Higher level. Copies of the specification are available from the Scottish Parliament Information Centre (Bib. number 47002). A Distinction will require A in one Advanced Higher, one other A in any component and at least B in all other components.
This announcement follows discussions between the Scottish Government and SQA who have been engaging with representatives from schools, college, HE and business sectors on the proposed specification for the Baccalaureates since June. SQA have taken account of feedback from these key stakeholders and have recommended a revised specification for these awards. Last week I met with SQA and agreed the specification for the award.
The aims of the Baccalaureates as initially announced on the 5 June are to encourage uptake in science and language courses in the upper secondary school; raise the status of S6 and motivate learners in their last year of school; assist young people in making the transition from school to further and higher education (FE/HE) and employment, and encourage collaboration between schools and FE/HE institutions.
This is an exciting development, which I believe will be challenging and rewarding for both pupils and teachers.