Individuals in principal teaching jobs have an important role to play in pushing the Curriculum for Excellence forward, it has been claimed.

According to Scotland's minister for skills and lifelong learning Keith Brown, the new curriculum is key to ensuring pupils are given the education they need to set them up later in life.

Mr Brown said that by contributing to an increase in standards and focusing on learning in the "wider community", principal teachers were at the forefront of the new programme of study.

"I believe principal teachers have a key role in driving Curriculum for Excellence forward in their schools," he said.

"By supporting and encouraging their colleagues - whether through input into continuing professional development or perhaps highlighting best practice - they can make a real difference."

Earlier this year, the Daily Telegraph reported that teaching associations in the country were calling for the Curriculum for Excellence to be postponed until August 2011.

Capita Education Services - high quality education recruitment services.