PIRLS 2006 Encyclopedia

training opportunities and offer several options of both further and higher educationqualifications. Colleges provide flexible learning opportunities to people of all ages, fromschool-age students to the more mature learner. In the 2004–05 school year, the averageage of a college student was 32. 18There are 21 higher education institutions in Scotland comprising 15 universities and6 other institutions. The higher education institutions provide courses for a sub-degree,first degree, the education and training of teachers, postgraduate studies at mastersand doctorate levels, and at a higher level in preparation for a qualification from aprofessional body.Role of Preprimary EducationThe Scottish Executive is committed to the continuation of the preschool program. FromApril 2002, under the Standards in Scotland Schools etc. Act (2000), local authoritiesmust secure a free part-time preschool education place for all children, ages 3 and 4, ifrequested by parents.Preschool, up to the age of 5, is available in a variety of forms and in a range of settingssuch as nursery classes within primary schools, nursery schools, and children’s centers. 19In addition, through the development of Childcare Partnerships, all local authorities nowcommission preschool places from private and voluntary centers, wherever this helpsmeet parents’ and children’s needs.According to participation rates for the 2005–06 school year, 99% of all eligiblechildren had registered for preschool places. 20 A curriculum framework for children,ages 3 to 5, was published in 1999 by HM Inspectors of Schools (Scotland) who have aresponsibility for inspecting preschool establishments. During every half-day session,it is expected that all children will take part in a range of balanced play, learning, anddevelopmental activities. The Curriculum Framework deals with key aspects of children’sdevelopment and learning and offers guidance on effective learning, staff interaction withchildren, partnership with parents, appropriate provision for children with additionalsupport needs, equal opportunities, and effective transition to the primary school. 21Reading Curriculum for Students Ages 5–14The 5–14 CurriculumThe goal of the 5–14 curriculum guidelines, followed by students in primary school andthe first 2 years of secondary school is to promote the following core skills:• Personal and interpersonal skills, including working with others,• Language and communication skills,• Numeracy skills,• Information communications technology (ICT) skills,PIRLS 2006 Encyclopedia• Problem-solving skills, and• Learning and thinking skills.ScotlandTIMSS & PIRLSInternational Study CenterLynch School of Education, Boston College 343