Curriculum for Excellence Curriculum for Excellence is the national programme of learning for Scottish Schools for children aged 3–18. It was developed following a 'National Debate on Education' in 2002. The curriculum is based on four key purposes of education; those that enable young people to become, "successful learners, confident individuals, responsible citizens and effective contributors." The aim is that each child and young person in Scotland has a coherent experience of education, and that they have opportunities to develop the knowledge, skills and attributes they need to adapt, think critically and flourish in today’s world. Manage Cookie Preferences