1.1 Scottish education

Scottish education is based on the belief that education is a human right and that all children and young people should be supported to reach their fullest potential. Scotland’s education system is designed to be an inclusive one for all children and young people in Scottish schools with or without additional support needs. The Scottish Government 2017 Consultation on the presumption of mainstreaming highlights that those with additional support needs should be enabled ‘to thrive as part of their class, their school and their wider community’. Mainstreaming is ‘a central pillar’ of this approach. This inclusive approach not only allows children and young people to thrive in their community but also contributes to all children and young people’s understanding and appreciation of diversity and helps to build a more just society.

Scotland’s ‘needs led’ system places the learner at the centre and the provision of support is not dependent upon a formal label or identification of need such as dyslexia, autism or a physical disability. Figure 2 provides an overview of the national legislation and policy which underpins the Scottish educational context of inclusion and equality. It is not intended as an exhaustive list of all Scottish policy which refers to inclusion but gives a broad over view of some of the key policy documents.

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Figure 2 Scottish educational contexts of inclusion and equality

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This diagram provides and overview of legislation and polices which support the Scottish Education system and how inclusive practice links with every aspect.

Figure 2 Scottish educational contexts of inclusion and equality