Centre for Teaching Excellence establishment: equality impact assessment

Executive summary

This Equality Impact Assessment (EQIA) considers the potential equality impacts of establishing the Centre. The Centre is a new national policy within the Scottish Government’s Education Reform programme. The Centre is intended to support all registered teachers across Scotland including those working in Gaelic Medium Education to engage with research, evidence and professional learning to strengthen pedagogical practice and improve outcomes for learners.

The EQIA considered impacts across all nine protected characteristics and the three Public Sector Equality Duty (PSED) needs. Evidence included national workforce data, equality data, engagement through a co‑production group and wider education policy context.

The assessment found that the policy is not directly discriminatory. However, indirect impacts may arise depending on how professional learning and engagement are designed and delivered. Potential deferential impacts were identified mainly in relation to age, disability, sex, pregnancy and maternity.

Overall, the EQIA concluded that the Centre is expected to have a positive impact. The policy provides opportunities to advance equality of opportunity and promote good relations. Equality considerations have informed the Centre’s design, including flexibility, accessibility and inclusive practice. Arrangements are in place to monitor and review impacts over time.