CATHOLIC EDUCATION WEEK - 'Teaching Values for Life'
27th January to 2nd February 2008

The Catholic community in Scotland will celebrate the achievements of Catholic education during the week 27th January to 2nd February 2008.  This year's celebration has a particular significance, as 2008 marks the 90th anniversary of the 1918 Education Act which initiated the transfer of Catholic schools over to local education authority management.

Commenting on the week's celebrations, the President of the Bishops' Conference of Scotland, Cardinal Keith O'Brien said:

"We are grateful for the First Minister's affirmation that Scottish Catholic education is in such good shape. We all know that many approximately 120,000 parents choose to enrol their children in Catholic schools because they offer quality education and formation which is characterised by an explicit set of values and a distinctive ethos. It is encouraging to know that the First Minister and the Scottish Government will ensure that the choice of Catholic schooling will continue to be available to parents in Scotland."

Commenting on Catholic Education Week, Fiona Hyslop, Cabinet Secretary for Education and Lifelong Learning said:

"Catholic schools form an important part of Scotland’s rich tapestry of education, providing firm foundations in learning and life for thousands of children.’

"Faith schools instil their pupils with a strong and positive ethos and pride in their school. Combining the opportunity to learn more about their faith, high quality teaching and a comprehensive and wide-ranging curriculum, all adds up to a very positive learning experience for many pupils.

"Catholic schools offer choice and diversity for parents and communities, enrich the education options available for pupils and are an integral and valued part of Scotland’s education system."

Responding to the Cabinet Secretary's remarks, Michael McGrath, Director of the Scottish Catholic Education service said: "I thank Fiona Hyslop, for her gracious comments on the valued contribution of Catholic schools to Scotland's education system. During this Catholic Education Week, it is gratifying to note that the Scottish Government recognises the very positive learning experience which Catholic schools offer to young people."