John Swinney will carry out his first school visit as Scotland’s new Education Secretary on Friday – on a trip to his former secondary.
The Deputy First Minister will join pupils for a science class at Forrester High School in Edinburgh as he takes up his new brief.
The ex-finance secretary has been tasked with the government’s “top priority” of closing the attainment gap following a Cabinet reshuffle earlier this week.
His predecessor Angela Constance has been moved to the new portfolio of Communities, Social Security and Equalities.
Mr Swinney will carry out several engagements in the capital before moving on to Stirling University where he will speak to students and lecturers.
He said: “Giving every child in Scotland an excellent education and improving prospects for all our young people is at the heart of the Scottish Government’s priorities this term.
“Allocating the Deputy First Minister the role of Education Secretary demonstrates the significance that the First Minister attaches to this issue. Our children and young people must be given the best possible start in life and I am determined to drive forward this agenda every day that I hold this office.
“Today I look forward to engaging directly with children, young people, early years staff, teachers, youth workers, students and lecturers – all of who are key to helping this government in our crucial work to ensure that every child in Scotland can have a great future.”
