West Dunbartonshire schools could get two extra days off

The Scottish Government and local authority body Cosla have agreed with teaching unions to provide up to two additional in-service days, during which schools will be closed to pupils.

The extra days are intended to give teachers time to prepare for the updated curriculum, which is due to be implemented from August 2028.

Draft materials are currently being tested and refined, with updated versions expected to be circulated early next year.

More than 3,800 teachers, practitioners, council education leads and experts have registered an interest in reviewing the draft materials and providing feedback.

Education Secretary Màiri McAllan said: “This is a significant milestone in delivering the most substantial curriculum reform in a decade.

“The draft materials build on the strengths of Curriculum for Excellence and respond to the OECD's call for greater clarity, stronger progression and a clearer focus on knowledge. By aligning curriculum, qualifications and assessment reform, we can deliver changes that work in the classroom and improve outcomes for young people.

“Teachers must have appropriate time and support to prepare properly – investing in dedicated time now will ensure high-quality learning and teaching for young people once the updated curriculum is implemented in August 2028.

“I have encouraged local councils to align additional days with existing school holidays to minimise disruption and look forward to taking forward a new curriculum designed to deliver excellence in our education system.”

The exact dates that would apply to schools in Clydebank, Dumbarton and across West Dunbartonshire have not yet been confirmed.

West Dunbartonshire Council has been approached for comment and confirmation of how the additional in-service days will be implemented locally.