Our children are the future of Scotland. We need to give them the best possible start in life so that they have the opportunity to play their full part in Scotland's future. Getting it right in the early years lays the foundation for the whole life of a child. We will provide children with a stimulating environment for playing, developing and learning, and help parents to balance work and family life.
Education is our highest priority in government.
This Government will work together with parents, teachers and pupils to achieve a world-class reputation for education, and create the high standards in our schools that will be the foundation for Scotland's future success. We will also develop wider involvement in culture and sport to enable people of all ages to enjoy rounded lives. Sam Galbraith has started work with Ministerial colleagues to develop integrated policy, funding and service delivery for children. He will ensure that vulnerable families, particularly those with very young children get the support they need, especially when the issues cut across other departments such as health and that tackling child poverty is a priority. He will also consult widely on an action programme for youth which values young people and reflects their own aspirations and needs.