The Scottish Government will not end up running schools as a result of the education governance review, the deputy First Minister has said.
A consultation is currently underway into proposals to hand direct decision making to schools.
Local councils could also lose some responsibilities and may have to pass control of some of their education budgets to headteachers under plans.
In a speech to the annual School Leaders Scotland (SLS) conference, John Swinney pledged to ensure headteachers have the support they need to grasp the opportunities of further devolution in the education system.
Mr Swinney said: “My relentless focus is on how to close the attainment gap and deliver excellence and equity in our schools.
“Our governance review is about getting education right for every child. Teachers
and parents will be the key decision-
“Let me be clear: this is not a discussion about whether central government or councils are going to run schools. I can state unreservedly that the Scottish Government will not end up running schools as a result of this process.
“Nor do I have plans to turn headteachers into bureaucrats or accountants. What I will do is ensure that all the support necessary is available so that headteachers have the skill and confidence to grasp the opportunities change like this can bring.”
The consultation runs until January.
Scottish Government ‘will not end up running schools’
20 November 2016