Question reference: S4W-27974
- Asked by: Michael Russell, MSP for Argyll and Bute, Scottish National Party
- Date lodged: 9 October 2015
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Current status: Answered by Angela Constance on 2 November 2015
Question
To ask the Scottish Government what its position is on considering innovations that aim to see a greater uptake of places at rural schools by encouraging different approaches to transport and catchment areas, and whether it is aware of the Swedish scheme, Turn the School Bus Around.
Answer
The Scottish Government is committed to protecting rural schools and supporting their role in preserving, supporting and developing rural communities.
The legislative responsibility for the provision of education in Scotland rests with individual local authorities, including decisions relating to catchment areas and the provision of school transport. In meeting these responsibilities, we would encourage authorities to take account of any national or international best practice that may be of benefit to the communities they serve, including initiatives such as Sweden's Turn the School Bus Around.