“These Regulations make provision in consequence of the Education (Scotland) Act 2025,” reads the statutory instrument signed off on 28 January 2026. The move formalises Scotland’s new education inspectorate and cleans up the legal handover from SQA to Qualifications Scotland, with Gaelic education duties brought into line. Scottish Parliament committee papers and legislation.gov.uk records set out the intent and scope. (parliament.scot)

On Gaelic education, the Regulations replace references to ‘HM inspectors of schools’ with the new office: His Majesty’s Chief Inspector of Education in Scotland (HMCIES). That switch applies when ministers set standards for Gaelic-medium education, when councils test the viability of an all‑Gaelic school, and when ministers consider ordering a council to open one. (parliament.scot)

Duties previously pinned to the SQA around Gaelic‑medium qualifications move to Qualifications Scotland. In practice, the new body is responsible for ensuring qualifications are available through Gaelic and for producing supporting materials in Gaelic where needed, so learners aren’t left with gaps as systems change. (parliament.scot)

The Gaelic Language (Scotland) Act 2005 is also updated so education authorities consult HMCIES-rather than the old inspectorate-when preparing Gaelic language plans. That gives councils a single, named source of advice as they draw up plans for local provision. (parliament.scot)

Money is tidied up too. The Budget (Scotland) Act 2025 is amended so the education portfolio can fund the Chief Inspector’s office, support Qualifications Scotland accreditation work and provide grant‑in‑aid to the new body. The point is to make sure the machinery can actually be paid for this year. (parliament.scot)

Timing is staggered. The Regulations come into force alongside the relevant sections of the Education (Scotland) Act 2025, with inspectorate provisions tracking section 33’s commencement. Several parts of the Act are already live, and further sections are scheduled through early 2026 under the latest commencement order. (legislation.gov.uk)

Why this matters north of the border: many Northern colleges, training providers and employers recognise SQA‑branded awards. UK‑wide changes are already updating references so law and paperwork align with Qualifications Scotland, limiting disruption for recruiters and learners moving between Scotland and the North. (gov.wales)

A long transition period is in place so centres and candidates are not stranded mid‑course. Commencement regulations confirm SQA qualifications remain recognised during a window from 1 December 2025 to 30 November 2029 while functions transfer to Qualifications Scotland. (legislation.gov.uk)

For Gaelic‑medium schooling, the practical shift is the advice route. Councils and ministers will now draw on HMCIES when setting standards, testing viability and, in exceptional cases, directing an all‑Gaelic school. The aim is consistent, transparent oversight rather than adding another layer of process. (parliament.scot)

What to do now if you run learning or HR in the North: check supplier and quality documents for SQA references, plan a re‑badge to Qualifications Scotland, and watch for further commencement notices through spring 2026. Keep an eye on inspectorate guidance too, as it will shape how Gaelic standards are applied on the ground. (vlex.co.uk)