Who is John Swinney? The Man Behind the Scottish Education Revolution

John Swinney is a Scottish politician who has served as the Deputy First Minister of Scotland and Cabinet Secretary for Education and Skills since 2014. A member of the Scottish National Party (SNP), he has been a Member of the Scottish Parliament (MSP) for Perthshire North since 2003.

Swinney was born in Edinburgh in 1964. He attended George Watson's College, an independent school in Edinburgh, and then studied law at the University of Edinburgh. After graduating, he worked as a solicitor and then as a lecturer in law at the University of Strathclyde.

Swinney entered politics in 1999 when he was elected as an MSP for Mid Scotland and Fife. He was appointed Minister for Finance and Public Services in the first Scottish government led by Jack McConnell.

In 2007, Swinney was appointed Cabinet Secretary for Finance and Sustainable Growth in the second Scottish government led by Alex Salmond. He served in this role until 2014, when he was appointed Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Secretary for Education and Skills.

As Education Secretary, Swinney has overseen a number of reforms to the Scottish education system, including the introduction of a new curriculum, the expansion of early years education, and the creation of a new national qualifications body.

Swinney is a controversial figure in Scottish politics. He is a strong supporter of Scottish independence and has been a vocal critic of the UK government's austerity policies.

However, Swinney is also respected for his commitment to education. He is a passionate advocate for social justice and believes that every child deserves the best possible education.

In his personal life, Swinney is married to Elizabeth, a nurse. They have two children.

Swinney is a keen cyclist and hillwalker. He is also a member of the Scottish National Party and the National Trust for Scotland.

John Swinney is a complex and fascinating character. He is a passionate advocate for Scottish independence and social justice, but he is also a pragmatist who is willing to work with others to achieve his goals.