Dunfermline: Former St Columba's teacher is Education Secretary

In his first Scottish Government Cabinet, First Minister Humza Yousaf appointed Mid Fife and Glenrothes MSP Jenny Gilruth to the role overseeing Scotland’s education system.

She takes over the position from Dunfermline MSP Shirley-Anne Somerville, who is now Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice.

Prior to being elected as MSP for Mid Fife and Glenrothes in 2016, Ms Gilruth worked for over a decade in education, most recently as a head of department at St Columba's High School in Dunfermline.

Before that, she worked at Education Scotland as NQ lead for Modern Studies, supporting the development of the new qualifications and also as a Modern Studies teacher.

Ms Gilruth, who was previously Transport Minister in Nicola Sturgeon's Cabinet, said: “I am honoured to have been asked by Humza Yousaf to serve as Cabinet Secretary for Education and Skills.

“I look forward to continuing our mission to tackle the attainment gap, tear down barriers to learning and end the digital divide.

“While it is a privilege to serve Scotland in cabinet, my first priority will always be my constituents and I will always make myself available to help those who need it.”

Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice, Shirley-Anne Somerville. (Image: Scottish Government)

Ms Somerville, meanwhile, said she was delighted to serve as Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice.

She added: "I will seek to continue the Scottish Government’s bold plans to tackle child poverty and develop a social justice system that is based on compassion."

First Minister Humza Yousaf commented: “The Cabinet team I have unveiled reflects the priorities that we will pursue as a government – including tackling child poverty, improving public services and building a fairer, greener economy.

“Ahead of my appointment as First Minister, I have committed myself to a radical, ambitious and progressive policy agenda for Scotland – and I know that this team is the right one to deliver it.”