EAUC response to Scotland's National Performance Framework review
EAUC Scotland has submitted a response to the Scottish Government’s proposed reforms to the National Performance Framework (NPF), drawing on over two decades of experience supporting colleges and universities to embed sustainability and wellbeing through whole‑institution approaches. The response reflects the central role of post‑16 education as anchor institutions within communities and as key contributors to Scotland’s long‑term wellbeing, skills, fairness and climate ambitions.
Our response strongly welcomes the renewed focus on long‑term collective wellbeing, but raises concerns about how effectively this ambition will translate into practice. We highlight the need for the NPF to move beyond a high‑level vision and meaningfully shape decision‑making, funding and accountability. In particular, we argue that environmental sustainability and nature recovery must be treated as foundational conditions of wellbeing, rather than siloed issues, given Scotland’s legally binding climate and biodiversity commitments and the growing evidence linking ecosystem health to social and economic resilience.
We also reflect on the proposed outcomes, ways of working and approach to measuring progress, emphasising the importance of clarity, prevention, and meaningful engagement with delivery organisations and sectors. EAUC Scotland believes the success of the reformed NPF will depend on whether it genuinely supports long‑term thinking, whole‑system collaboration and shared ownership across society. We welcome continued dialogue with the Scottish Government and partners to help ensure the NPF becomes a practical, trusted framework for improving wellbeing for people and communities across Scotland.
| 23 April 2026 | |
| Resource | |
| NPF review response.pdf | |
| EAUC |
