DUNFERMLINE MSP Shirley-Anne Somerville has been named as the new Cabinet Secretary for Education and Skills.

Her appointment had to be carried out virtually yesterday (Wednesday) after Ms Somerville had to self isolate while a family member waited for a COVID-19 test result.

A tweet from First Minister Nicola Sturgeon confirmed the "somewhat unorthodox" measure had meant the Bute House walk was replaced with a zoom call.

Ms Somerville also missed out on the traditional Cabinet photo outside the First Minister's residence because of the voluntary self-isolation.

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She explained: "Thankfully their result came back negative although they will of course continue to self-isolate as requested by Test and Protect. Meanwhile, I have been able to attend Parliament today.

"I want to thank everyone who sent their well wishes but I want to assure people that we're all doing just fine."

Reacting to her appointment, Ms Somerville said she was "delighted and truly honoured" to take up the position.

"I fully understand what an important time this is for education in Scotland," she said. "Young people have faced a lot of disruption to their learning due to the pandemic and our teachers have done a sterling job to provide the best learning experience possible in the most trying of circumstances.

"This Government is committed to closing the attainment gap and breaking down the remaining barriers that prevent children from accessing the opportunities they deserve.

"We are determined to make Scotland the best place in the world to grow up and education will certainly play a key role in achieving that aim."

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Ms Somerville's appointment has been welcomed by teaching union, the EIS.

It's General Secretary, Larry Flanagan, said he looks forward to "constructive dialogue" with Ms Somerville in the months and years to come."

"The EIS already has some experience of working with Ms Somerville from her time as Minister for Further and Higher education, and this will provide a sound base on which to build a positive working relationship," he said.

"The Cabinet Secretary can expect an early invitation to speak at the EIS Annual General Meeting next month, and we hope that she will be able to take up this opportunity to engage directly with Scotland’s teaching professionals."