This consultation response from CELCIS provides information and insights on the proposed changes to Education Scotland and the reform of the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA). The key messages in this response are:

• The opportunity for reform is an historical moment to redesign a school system that reflects fast paced technological, pedagogical advances and puts equity at its core
• Children’s experiences and views must be listened to and meaningfully taken into account when decisions are made about the curriculum and methods of assessment
• There is an opportunity to re-think what is scrutinised via inspection, based upon a nuanced understanding of the dynamic needs of care experienced learners
• Particular attention should be paid to the emotional and practical support that the workforce needs to ensure that any reform is successful

The response is based on research evidence, practice experience, and feedback from our long-standing, cross-organisational networks, comprising practitioners and leaders working across the spectrum of children’s services and other public services in support of children.