According to the Herald, the Scottish Government has stepped back from plans to drastically reduce the influence of councils over the running of schools through the introduction of “regional collaboratives”.

The paper says that deputy first minister John Swinney has held discussions with COSLA to agree a compromise which would ensure local government retains a significant stake in his improvement agenda, although the new arrangement will demand councils are able to demonstrate schools are benefitting and headteachers are being adequately supported.

If this proves to be the case, then the change of mind by the government is welcome. Aberdeenshire Council already liaises with other local authorities where appropriate through the Northern Alliance.