The Liberal Democrats have revealed that the SNP didn’t bother to look at the pros and cons of introducing the International Baccalaureate (IB) in Scottish schools, before they dumped the idea recently.
The SNP said in their 2007 manifesto that they would “examine the case” for introducing the IB in Scotland, but Parliamentary Questions have shown they have failed to do that.
The SNP Government have consulted just two independent schools who offer the qualification.
They have not consulted with Universities as to its suitability in preparing students, nor have they analysed demand among schools for teaching the IB.
Commenting, Liberal Democrat Education spokesperson Margaret Smith said:
“The SNP promised in their manifesto that they would look at whether the IB is suitable for Scotland.
“They have not even tried.
“Consulting just two private schools and no Universities is hardly what I would call a thorough examination.
“The SNP have made no effort to find out if students, teachers or universities could benefit from the IB.
“Liberal Democrats want to see all means of improving learning in upper secondary education examined properly as well as the transition to higher education.
“The SNP have not said why they have backed out of the International Baccalaureate.
“It is a prestigious qualification which may be suitable for Scottish schools.
“I want to know why the SNP have ditched the IB.”
