Thanks Mike! @Feorlean with @MichelleSLCSA

This is a back Blip actually taken in August, but my most recent photo that included fellow Blipper @Feorlean, better known as Michael Russell MSP, the former Cabinet Secretary for Education.

Since Mike moved on from government a few days ago, I have wondered how best to recognise the fact, since it is a significant moment. I can think of no better way than this photo (actually about 25% of a bigger photo I've edited for this showing). It shows Mike pictured beside Michelle Bingham one of Scotland's outstanding student presidents. Mike was responsible for ensuring students in Scotland's Colleges now have a much more important role and much more significant recognition, than ever before. In the words of one of his government publications, he has been "Putting Learners at the Centre".

Also in the picture, taken on the grounds of South Lanarkshire College, he is holding a time capsule which amongst other things contains a copy of a major piece of legislation Mike successfully got through parliament. It is perhaps symbolic of his passing on the fruits of his endeavours to the next generation of politicians, and the new Cabinet Secretary Angela Constance.

We all wish Angela a successful and enjoyable stay as Cabinet Secretary. I know she too is enormously committed to Scottish education as she follows in big footsteps.