SINCE becoming First Minister almost two years ago, Nicola Sturgeon has said consistently that education is her top priority. From the outset, she asked to be judged on her success in reducing the entrenched attainment gap between children from better and worse off backgrounds.

It was a message repeated during the election campaign and backed up soon after the SNP victory by action in the form of appointing John Swinney, her most experienced and able minister, to the post of education secretary.

A series of reforms have been promised. But Mr Swinney has identified the existing, but relatively new, Curriculum for Excellence (CfE) as key to that objective.

In his first major speech since moving to his new job, he outlined his determination to ensure CfE operates as it should. The renewed focus is welcome.

Under his predecessor, Angela Constance, a vacuum developed in Scottish education. Without clear leadership from the government, heads and classroom teachers were left uncertain about the curriculum reforms and the philosophy behind them.

Too often, political soundbites were offered when practical guidance was required.

Mr Swinney's approach appears closer to that of Michael Russell, the education secretary whom Ms Constance replaced, in that he is immersing himself in the nitty gritty of education policy.

Enjoying, as he does, the absolute confidence of the First Minister, that combination could make him formidably effective.

Let's hope so.

While there is near universal support for CfE, and the aim of providing a broader general education less bound by the constant and constricting need to pass exams, school leaders remain confused about the new demands being placed on them.

It is perhaps no coincidence that Education Scotland, one of the agencies with which Mr Swinney will need to work closely, issued detailed new guidelines this week on the number of exams students should be taking at the different stages of their school career.

Mr Swinney seems to understand it is the kind of nitty gritty information that is needed in staff rooms.

If the Deputy First Minister and former finance secretary has made a highly encouraging start, no-one should expect the next few years to be plain sailing.

The Scottish Government has also promised more direct funding of schools, setting up a potentially bruising battle with local authorities.

Mr Swinney was also unambiguous about controversial plans to introduce standardised national assessments, a move which many teachers and educationalists regard with extreme suspicion.

It is likely to produce another battle.

But Mr Swinney's chances of building a coalition of support for such reforms will be greatly aided if he can get CfE back on track.

Nothing will win the trust and respect of teachers more quickly. And nothing will earn more thanks from Scotland's parents.

Ms Sturgeon is right to prioritise education. Figures this week showed attainment falling, an alarming trend that, after nine years in power, the SNP cannot afford to ignore.

The gap between children from rich and poor families continues to be not just a national embarrassment but a monumental and unforgivable waste of talent.

Mr Swinney has started his new job well. But be in no doubt, it's a big job.