Queen Margaret University (QMU), Edinburgh welcomed Ben Macpherson MSP, the Scottish Government’s Minister for Innovation, Technology and Tertiary Education, to campus yesterday (7 August 2026) as he met staff supporting prospective students through the Clearing process.
The Minister visited QMU’s dedicated Clearing operations room, where the University’s Admissions, Recruitment, Outreach and Widening Participation teams are helping applicants explore their study options and secure places on courses starting this September.
While applications to study at QMU this year have been buoyant, the University is pleased to have places available on a number of courses through Clearing, all of which are open to and welcome Scottish applicants.
Tertiary Education Minister, Ben Macpherson, said: “Missing a university offer doesn’t have to mean missing out on going to university.
“Clearing provides many opportunities for students across Scotland to find a course and university that’s right for them, and it’s been great to see Queen Margaret University’s dedicated team offering such personalised support to prospective students.
“Our message to anyone still weighing up their options is this: search ucas.com and don’t hesitate to reach out to your school, UCAS, universities, Skills Development Scotland (SDS) or Qualifications Scotland if you need support.
“We would also encourage anyone heading to university or college this autumn to look into having both doses of the MenB vaccine, as this is one of the highest-risk times for meningococcal disease.”
During his visit, the Minister met members of the Clearing team to learn more about how they are supporting prospective students by phone and email during one of the busiest periods in the higher education calendar.
In addition to personalised support from the Clearing team, QMU is offering dedicated campus tours for prospective Clearing applicants and an ‘Ask a Student’ service, giving applicants the opportunity to speak directly with current students about life at the University.
Sir Paul Grice, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of QMU, said: “Clearing is an important opportunity for many students to find the right university and course for them, and we’re proud of the personalised support our teams provide throughout the process.
It was wonderful to welcome the Minister to campus and demonstrate how we’re helping prospective students explore the degree opportunities available at QMU, with all of our courses focused on preparing career-ready graduates.
“We know that choosing where to study is a significant decision, and we’re committed to making that journey as straightforward and supportive as possible.”
Prospective students can contact QMU’s friendly Clearing team by phone or email for advice on available courses and the application process.
They can also find information on available courses, campus tours, student stories and guidance on the Clearing process on the University’s Clearing webpages.
Alongside highlighting the opportunities available through Clearing, the Minister used his visit to highlight the importance of eligible students taking up the free MenB vaccine ahead of starting university.
Young people in Scotland, including S6 leavers born between March 2008 and February 2009 and under-25s entering higher or further education for the first time in 2026-27, are eligible for two free doses.
As moving into shared accommodation can increase the risk of infection, students are encouraged to complete the course before the start of term where possible and to check NHS Inform for more information.
With results for Nationals, Highers, Advanced Highers and Skills for Work Awards being issued on Tuesday 4 August, Dr Marguerita Magennis, psychologist, parenting consultant and psychology tutor at FindTutors, shares her advice for helping young people feel supported, whatever the outcome. Manage your own expectations before the day:
Results day can be emotionally charged for parents as well as young people. It is important for parents to recognise their own hopes, fears and expectations before the day arrives.
Children are highly attuned to the emotions of those around them and can quickly absorb parental anxiety, often feeling responsible for managing not only their own emotions but those of their parents too. Remaining calm and keeping the focus on unconditional support helps create an environment where children feel valued regardless of the outcome.
Regulate your own reaction before you respond
The first few moments after results are opened may be remembered long after the grades themselves. Before speaking, parents should take a moment to regulate their own emotional response. Young people instinctively look to trusted adults to judge how serious a situation is. Calm body language, a relaxed posture and a reassuring presence help communicate emotional safety, allowing the child to begin processing their disappointment without feeling they have also disappointed those they love.
Do not rush to reassure or solve the problem
When children experience disappointment, they first need their emotions to be acknowledged rather than redirected.
Well-intentioned reassurance or rushing into practical solutions can unintentionally minimise what feels like a significant loss to them.
From a psychological perspective, emotional validation helps regulate the nervous system and enables clearer thinking. Once a child feels understood, they are usually far better placed to consider solutions and future options.
Give them space while keeping the door open
Children and young people process disappointment differently. Some need to talk immediately, while others require time to make sense of their emotions before they feel ready to engage.
Respecting that need for space demonstrates trust rather than indifference. Parents can remain emotionally available without placing pressure on their child to talk before they are ready, recognising that conversations often happen once emotions have had time to settle.
Choose your words carefully
Parents should focus on acknowledging their child’s feelings, reassuring them that their worth extends far beyond academic performance, and reinforcing that disappointing results do not define their future.
Equally important is avoiding comments that minimise emotions, assign blame or compare them with siblings, friends or classmates. While these responses are often intended to motivate or reassure, they can increase feelings of shame and reinforce the belief that love or approval is conditional on achievement.
Wait until emotions have settled before discussing next steps
Immediately after receiving disappointing news, emotions often override logical thinking. Parents should allow time for those initial feelings to settle before introducing discussions about appeals, alternative pathways or future plans.
A child is usually ready when they begin asking questions, expressing curiosity about their options or engaging more openly in conversation. Allowing emotional processing before practical planning encourages more thoughtful decision-making.
Avoid comparing your child with others
Comparison can be deeply damaging because it shifts the focus away from individual strengths and reinforces the idea that success is measured against someone else’s achievements.
Every young person develops at their own pace, with different abilities, challenges and aspirations.
Supporting children to value their own progress rather than competing with others helps build resilience, confidence and a healthier sense of self-worth.
Put social media celebrations into perspective
Social media can magnify disappointment by presenting a carefully curated version of success. Young people may mistakenly believe that everyone else has achieved the outcomes they hoped for, when in reality they are only seeing selected moments.
Parents can help by encouraging perspective, reminding children that social media rarely reflects the full picture and reinforcing that their own journey does not need to mirror anyone else’s to be meaningful or successful.
Celebrate commitment, not just grades
When rewards become closely linked to grades, children may begin to associate love, approval or self-worth with achievement rather than effort and personal growth.
This can contribute to perfectionism, fear of failure and increased anxiety around future performance.
Where possible, celebrations should recognise the commitment, perseverance and resilience shown throughout the examination process rather than being determined solely by the final outcome.
Remember that results do not define a young person
As a psychologist, I would encourage parents to remember that results D=day is not simply about grades, it is about identity, self-esteem and hope for the future.
The way parents respond can have a lasting influence on how a young person interprets both success and disappointment.
Examination results may shape the next step in their journey, but they do not define their potential, their character or their value. Feeling accepted and supported, regardless of the outcome, is one of the greatest protective factors for a young person’s emotional wellbeing.
About Dr Marguerita Magennis
Dr Marguerita Magennis is a psychologist, parenting consultant, early years specialist and psychology tutor at FindTutors with more than 25 years’ experience working with children, families and educators.
She works with schools, preschools and parents to support children’s learning, emotional development and wellbeing, with a particular focus on neurodivergence and early childhood development. Professional profile is here.
As thousands of young people across Scotland receive their exam results, two leading electrical bodies have reminded students that there’s no wrong path to a rewarding and successful career in the electrotechnical industry.
With many school leavers unsure of their next step, and others disappointed by their grades, SELECT and the Scottish Joint Industry Board (SJIB) have highlighted the valuable opportunities and potential high earnings offered through an electrical apprenticeship.
Alan Wilson, Managing Director of the country’s largest construction trade body, SELECT, said: “This week’s results will have brought joy for some and disappointment for others, but our message is simple – there is no wrong path.
“We want young people and their parents to understand that an electrical apprenticeship is a highly respected and financially rewarding career option that offers lifelong skills and exciting opportunities. Qualified electricians earn excellent salaries and their services are in high demand here in Scotland and across the world.
“A great number of our members are always on the lookout for potential apprentice recruits so whether you’ve achieved top grades or are still unsure about what comes next, this is a chance to build a future that’s hands-on, challenging and constantly evolving. After all, the future is electric.”
Catherine Gillon, Secretary of the SJIB, added: “Becoming an electrician means joining an economically crucial, modern profession with increasing demand, especially in areas like renewables, electric vehicles, and smart technology.
“Apprentices are supported throughout their journey and come away with respected industry qualifications that open doors around the world.
“We encourage anyone with an interest in how things work and a desire to learn to consider applying. It’s never too late to start.”
As the country transitions to a net zero future, demand for skilled electricians has never been higher and apprenticeships remain one of the most effective ways to develop talent for the future.
Catherine went on: “Getting started as an electrical apprentice is easy, with typical entry requirements beingNational 4/5 in English, maths and a science or technical subject.
“Anyone interested in finding out more and applying to become an apprentice should contact the Scottish Electrical Charitable Training Trust (SECTT), who manage Scotland’s industry-approved training scheme for electrical apprenticeships on behalf of the SJIB.”
After studying music at college and working a range of manual jobs, Scott changed direction in his mid-20s and is now thriving as a qualified electrician with DRB UK Maintenance in Hamilton.
Scott, from East Kilbride, said: “I didn’t think it would be possible to start an apprenticeship later in life, but I’m so glad I did.
“I’ve been lucky to work on major electric vehicle charger projects across the UK and now I’m aiming to become an Approved Electrician and even run my own business one day.”
He added: “My message to anyone unsure about their future is simple – just go for it. You’ll be supported every step of the way, and the opportunities are endless.”
PENTLANDS MSP CONGRATULATES STUDENTS RECEIVING EXAM RESULTS
SNP MSP Gordon Macdonald has congratulated pupils across Edinburgh as they received their exam results.
This year’s results show a strong rise in attainment across Scotland’s schools and colleges, including for young people in the city.
More than 147,000 learners across the country received their results, with rates increasing at National 5, Higher, and Advanced Higher levels compared to 2024 and pre-pandemic levels in 2019.
The results also confirm that the poverty related attainment gap continues to narrow across all levels, demonstrating the SNP Government’s commitment to ensuring every young person can succeed, no matter their background.
Notably, a record 110,380 young people achieved vocational and technical awards in subjects such as construction, business, and hospitality, up over 22% on last year.
The SNP Government has committed to continuing its work to close the attainment gap and invest in a world-class education system that supports all learners, no matter their path.
Commenting, Gordon Macdonald MSP said: “Yesterday’s results are a huge achievement for the young people of Edinburgh and across Scotland, and a testament to the hard work of students, teachers, parents, and carers. Congratulations.
“I’m particularly encouraged to see the attainment gap continuing to close. It’s clear that SNP investment in education, from early years through to school and beyond, is delivering for our communities.
“The growth in vocational qualifications is especially welcome. It shows that our young people are gaining real skills for work and life, supported by a modern, inclusive curriculum that offers pathways for everyone, not just the traditional academic route.
“There’s more to do, but this year’s results prove that the SNP is making progress where it matters – in classrooms, colleges, and communities. I couldn’t be prouder of what our learners are achieving across the city.”
With thousands of students across Scotland receiving their exam results next week, MFMac, one of Scotland’s “big four” independent law firms, is launching a new initiative to support young people considering a future in law.
The MFMac Career Helpline, running from 4 – 8th August, will provide live career advice for students during Scotland’s exam results week.
The initiative is designed to break down barriers and offer practical guidance for aspiring lawyers, particularly those without industry connections or mentors, and help parents navigate their children’s career options.
Through the Helpline, students and parents will have the opportunity to speak directly with the firm’s current trainees and members of the People team, gaining insight into legal pathways, university decisions and what a career in law can look like beyond the traditional routes.
Martin Glover, Chief People Officer at MFMac, said: “Getting your exam results can be daunting, particularly for those without access to career advice or legal role models.
“Through this Helpline, we want to give students and parents a clear starting point: someone to speak to, questions answered and honest advice about what’s possible. It reflects our broader mission to make legal careers more accessible, inclusive and achievable for all.”
Jamie Stewart, a Senior Solicitor in MFMac’s Commercial team, said:“When I got my exam results, I felt completely unsure about what to do next or how to progress into my career.
“I had no close contacts in law, and I didn’t know who to ask for advice. This Helpline offers students something I didn’t have – a chance to speak to someone who understands your concerns.
“I’m proud to be part of something that helps you see there’s always a way forward. Remember, your results don’t define your future – there’s always a path ahead.”
Students and parents can call The MFMac Career Helpline on 0131 247 1060. The line is open between 9am – 7pm Monday 4th – 8th August.
Young people in the capital can call a dedicated helpline offering expert advice to anyone receiving their full Higher, National, and Advanced results on Tuesday, 5 August 2025.
The pupils and students- along with their parents and carers – will be able to get support with their results through Skills Development Scotland’s (SDS) Results Helpline, which opens from 8am on results day.
The SDS Results Helpline will once again be staffed by expert careers advisers to assist anybody that needs help with their options and next steps, providing impartial career information, advice, and guidance.
The team of qualified advisers from Scotland’s national skills agency will be at the end of the phone line to offer guidance on colleges and universities, UCAS Confirmation and Clearing, apprenticeships, jobs and other training, volunteering, or staying on at school.
The number for the 2025 SDS Results Helpline is 0808 100 8000 and will be open:
Tuesday 5 and Wednesday 6 August – 8am to 8pm
Thursday 7 and Friday 8 August – 9am to 5pm
Dave McCallum, Head of Career Information, Advice and Guidance Operations at SDSsaid: “Our message for young people and their parents and carers as their results arrive is not to panic. Everything might seem overwhelming right now but remember that this is just one step on their journey.
“Our experienced advisers are here to provide expert support and guidance, offering information on a wide range of options and opportunities. They are also trained to help young people recognise that they are more than their exam results, giving them the confidence to see their strengths and abilities beyond qualifications.”
Local SDS Careers Adviser Gillian Ross is part of the Results Helpline team who will be taking calls from young people, parents and carers from across the country. Gillian said: “Whether a young person didn’t receive the results they were hoping for, or they exceeded their expectations, we are here to help them navigate the next steps and make the best decisions for their future.”
The SDS Results Helpline has been going for 33 years and has helped tens of thousands of young Scots.
There’s also an SDS careers adviser linked to every secondary school in Scotland, with almost a quarter of a million school pupils from P7 to S6 receiving careers information, advice and guidance each year*.
Education Secretary Jenny Gilruthsaid: “Young people have so many different ways to achieve their qualifications, with many eagerly anticipating their results coming through next month. It is important that no matter how they do, young people and their families have access to trusted and reliable information on potential next steps. That is what the advisers at the Skills Development Scotland helpline provide.
“I would encourage everyone looking for impartial and expert advice on the options available, whether that is in work, training or further study, to consider contacting the helpline.”
Developing the Young Workforce (DYW) helps young people get ready for the world of work by connecting them with employers and supporting them to explore a wide range of career pathways. DYW Co-ordinators are based in secondary schools across Scotland, working alongside SDS careers advisers to support pupils with their next steps.
Michelle Fenwick, Director – DYW National Projects, said: “As results are released, it’s important that young people know there are many routes to success and that support is there for them.
“Through our #NoWrongPath campaign, and in partnership with SDS, we’re helping young people understand that the world of work is full of opportunity.
“Whether a young person is going into further or higher education, training, employment or still considering their options – the Results Helpline is a great way to get guidance, reassurance, and a sense of direction.”
In addition to the dedicated SDS Results Helpline, young people and their parents or carers can also speak to an SDS adviser at a SDS centre or community venue (find out what’s close to you by visiting the Contact Us area of the SDS website), visit Scotland’s career information and advice website, My World of Work, or speak to directly to an SDS school-based careers adviser for year-round support.
Education Secretary Jenny Gilruth has congratulated students across Scotland as they receive their Scottish Qualification Authority (SQA) exam results.
Around 145,000 students – the highest since 2015 – have achieved a wide range of qualifications including National 5, Highers, Advanced Highers and SQA Awards.
With this year marking the return of full coursework assessment following the disruption during the pandemic, the data published by the SQA shows the pass rates for Advanced Highers are 75.3%, Highers are 74.9% and 77.2% at National 5 level.
A record 90,045 vocational and technical qualifications have been awarded this year, an increase of almost 25% on 2024, reflecting the wide range of opportunities available to students.
The data also shows the poverty-related attainment gap at National 5 and Higher has returned to levels broadly similar to 2019 – the last year of pre-pandemic results.
Education Secretary Jenny Gilruth said: “Congratulations to all of Scotland’s young people receiving their results for this year.
“Their resilience is remarkable, and their achievements all the more impressive given the significant disruption to learning due to the pandemic at the end of primary school and start of the secondary school journey. Today is a chance to celebrate the full breadth of achievements attained by Scotland’s young people.
“I also want to give my thanks to the teachers, lecturers and staff in our schools and colleges – and, importantly, Scotland’s parents and carers – for supporting each individual young person.
“Among those achievements, I’m really heartened to see a record high 90,045 vocational or technical qualifications have been awarded this year, up almost a quarter on 2023’s results.
“Young people now have a much wider range of choice than ever before, allowing them to find the route into employment or further education that is right for them and we know that the poverty related gap has reduced by 60% since 2009 for young people leaving school and going on to a positive destination, such as work, training or further study.
“Of course Scotland is not unique – and like countries the world over, our education system is still in recovery from the pandemic. Undoubtedly, that has contributed to some of the variability we have seen in results this year, particularly with the full return to qualifications requirements for the first time since the pandemic.
“I am determined to work with our teachers, school staff and local authorities to drive further improvements in our schools.
“The curriculum improvement cycle is already underway, with mathematics and numeracy being prioritised first, which is being led by the recently appointed new national specialist in Mathematics.
“In the coming weeks, I will publish the Behaviour Action Plan, set out new action to improve attendance and confirm the Scottish Government’s next steps on qualifications reform early in the new parliamentary term.
“I am also conscious that there is a wide degree of variation in results between our 32 local authorities. To that end, I will be meeting with all local authority Directors of Education, the Chief Examiner and the interim Chief Inspector to consider the context of these results and how the Scottish Government can work with our councils to drive the improvements we all want to see.”
Levels of attainment for pupils across Edinburgh remain above those achieved before the Covid pandemic according to exam results released today.
Around 12,390 pupils in the Capital have received their results from the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA). This is the first year since 2019 where there are no adjustments to course and assessment requirements. Different assessment models were used in 2020 and 2021 due to the impact of the pandemic.
A total of 44,003 resulted awards were certificated for 12,392 candidates (including special school, adult and mainstream secondary pupils) in over 92 subjects ranging from Accounting to Urdu.
The performance of pupils across Edinburgh was maintained or improved in most measures for National 5 and Higher courses when compared to both 2023 and 2019 performance.
The gap in performance between the least advantaged and the most advantaged pupils has decreased in almost all measures when compared with 2023 and 2019 data.
The number of passes in National Progression Awards have increased by 17%. By broadening the range of learning pathways for young people more personalised opportunities for achievement are being created.
Sanjay Nair (16) who is going into sixth year at Liberton High School said: “I had the vision of going to university since I was quite young and towards the end of this year I decided to stay on for sixth year.
“I’ll go to university next year to make sure I’m ready to go on to study further. I’ve enjoyed Computing Science for a while and I like programming. My Dad does it at home and so I’m delighted that I’ve got the A and Bs at higher I need to make my parents proud and do what I’ve always wanted to do.”
Paige Quin (15) who has just left Liberton High school to go to college to study Childcare said: “Over the last couple of years I’ve done courses in hairdressing and beauty at Granton College and I studied childcare in school.
“I’m excited now to be moving on to college and my goal is to become a foster carer as I think it is really important that all children have the right to a loving and caring environment. I’m really pleased that I got the grades I needed today to do that.
Jenna Braban (17) who has just left Liberton High School to go to Cambridge to study Veterinary Medicine said: “I’ve always wanted to be a vet and I started considering Cambridge as a possibility at the end of fifth year. Going to a summer school made my mind up.
“I’ve had to study so hard to achieve the As I got at advanced higher. I did a lot of interviews and my teachers were a great support during that time. I’m ecstatic about my results and I can’t wait to start my studies at Cambridge after the summer.
Councillor Joan Griffiths, Education Convener for the City of Edinburgh Council, said: “I would like to thank all of our school staff who have worked incredibly hard to ensure that our young people were able to perform so well in their coursework and examinations.
“I want to recognise the invaluable support given by parents and carers and most of all I would like to take this opportunity to praise the efforts of our young people.
“Every learner’s journey and achievements are unique to them, we have the ambition that all young people are able to fulfil their potential, reach the highest levels of achievement through the provision of the best possible educational experiences.
“I am particularly pleased that our schools are using a wide range of vocational qualifications, providing pathways for all into positive destinations.”
Additional results analysis
Results by end of S4
5 passes at National 5 or better – 47% (1pp down on 2023).
Results by end of S5
1+ pass at Higher or better – 61% (1 pp up on 2023 and 4 pp up on 2019)
3+ passes Higher or better – 42% (1 pp down on 2023 but 4 pp up on 2019)
5+ passes at Higher or better – 24% (same as 2023 and 4pp up on 2019)
Results by end of S6
1+ pass at Higher or better – 70% (1pp up on 2023 but 4 pp up on 2019)
3+ passes Higher or better – 52% (1pp up on 2023 but 3 pp up on 2019)
5+ passes at Higher or better – 39% (1pp up on 2023 but 3 pp up on 2019)
1+ pass at Advanced Higher – 32% (1pp up on 2023 but 5 pp up on 2019)
Anyone who did not receive the results they had hoped for, or who is just unsure about their next steps, should get in touch with the SDS exam helpline for access to expert careers advice.
Levels of attainment for pupils across Edinburgh remain above those achieved before the Covid pandemic, while passes in vocational courses continue to climb, according to exam results released yesterday.
More than 9500 pupils in the Capital received their results from the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) on Tuesday (8 August). 2023 was the second year since 2019 that pupils sat formal exams and attainment remains high in comparison. Different assessment models were used in 2020 and 2021 due to the impact of the pandemic.
Passes in National Progression Awards (NPA), vocational courses equivalent to National passes, have also increased, with 48 NPA courses leading to 941 passes at levels 4, 5 and 6. This is compared to 26 NPA courses and 296 passes in 2019.
A total of 51,941 resulted awards were certificated for 9,583 candidates (includes special schools, adults and mainstream secondary pupils) in over 85 subjects ranging from Accounting to Urdu.
National 5s saw passes (A-C grades) of 78% (up one percentage point from 2019 but down one percentage point compared to last year) and Highers saw passes of 78% (up two percentage points from 2019 though three percentage points lower than 2022).
Notable results include:
By the end of S4, 48% achieved 5 passes at National 5 or better (5 percentage points up on 2019 but 1 percentage point down on 2022)
By the end of S5*, 63% achieved 1 or more Higher passes or better (6 percentage points up on 2019 and the same as 2022)
By the end of S6* 69% achieved one or more Higher passes (1 percentage point down on 2022 but 3 percentage points up on 2019)
Pupil Vincent Rodziewicz, who is about to start S6 at Craigmount High School, said: “This year I got an A and a few Bs and I was quite surprised by these results, they were very positive actually – I expected to do worse in Maths.
“I don’t feel that stressed about the way exams are done though, I don’t mind being in a big hall.”
Zaneta, who is an S5 pupil at Craigmount, added:“I was really nervous, but I think my results are good – I wasn’t really expecting straight As.
“It will give me a lot of confidence going into S5 as well, because I know it’s going to be a difficult year.”
Councillor Joan Griffiths, Education Convener for the City of Edinburgh Council, said: “The Covid pandemic may seem like a distant memory for some, but recent years have posed a real challenge for pupils and teaching staff in all our schools who have had to deal with the impact on learning and teaching.
“All our teachers and staff have worked extremely hard in preparing pupils for these exams, as well as parents/carers whose support is invaluable and, most of all, our young people themselves should be praised for their hard work and achievements.
“We want to make sure all school pupils are able to fulfil their potential by attaining the highest level of achievements possible and by receiving the best possible experience – every learner’s journey is unique. We look forward to building on the success of this year’s learners as they move through the senior phase and onto positive destinations.”
Additional information – analysis
Results by the end of S4 5 passes at National 5 or better – 48% (1 percentage point down on 2022 but 5 percentage points up on 2019)
Results by the end of S5* 1+ pass at Higher or better – 63% (same as 2022 but 6 percentage points up on 2019) 3+ passes at Higher or better – 44% (same as 2022 but 6 percentage points up on 2019) 5+ passes at Higher or better – 24% (same as 2022 but 4 percentage points up on 2019).
Results by the end of S6* 1+ pass at Higher or better – 69% (1 percentage point down on 2022 but 3 percentage points up on 2019) 3+ passes Higher or better – 51% (2 percentage points down on 2022 but 2 percentage points up on 2019) 5+ passes at Higher or better – 38% (2 percentage points down on 2022 but 2 percentage points up on 2019) 1+ pass at Advanced Higher – 31% (1 percentage point down on 2022 but 4 percentage points up on 2019)
Students getting their exam results today should be very proud of their achievements, Education Secretary Jenny Gilruth has said, with pass rates remaining above pre-pandemic levels.
Data published by the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) showed the overall pass rate for National 5, Highers and Advanced Highers has increased from the 2019 pre-pandemic level, with a record number of passes in an exam year achieved at National 5.
The number of vocational and technical qualifications achieved has also grown to a record high this year – with more than 72,000 qualifications awarded in 2023, an increase of 12.3% from 2022.
The poverty-related attainment gap remains narrower than it was in 2019 across National 5s, Highers and Advanced Highers.
Education Secretary Jenny Gilruth said: “I want to offer my congratulations to all of you who have worked so hard and demonstrated so much resilience not just this year but over the course of your studies. Today is all about celebrating your achievements and you should be incredibly proud of all you have accomplished.
“I would also like to send my sincere thanks and gratitude for the continued dedication and commitment of those in our education system – thank you to all of Scotland’s teachers, lecturers, support staff as well as parents and carers for supporting our young people.
“There is much to celebrate in what is another strong set of results showing a clear and continuing recovery from the pandemic – with pass rates at National 5, Higher and Advanced Higher above the 2019 pre-pandemic level, a record number of passes at National 5 and the highest number of vocational and technical qualifications ever awarded.
“While we know that the pandemic has disproportionately impacted young people from more disadvantaged backgrounds, these results show that the gap in attainment levels between the least and most deprived areas remains narrower than it was in 2019. We are determined to build on the progress that has been made and we are investing a record £1 billion in the Scottish Attainment Challenge during this parliamentary term.
“For those who don’t get the results they were looking for, a free and direct appeals service will give all young people the right to request a review of their marked exam papers or coursework for their National 5, Higher and Advanced Higher results this year. Additionally, as you consider your next steps there is help available to guide you.
“The Skills Development Scotland Careers Helpline can offer practical information and careers advice as well as support for wellbeing. The SQA helpline is also open and can help students and their families with queries relating to the Scottish Qualifications Certificates.”
As exam results arrive this morning students are being assured that things may not be as bad as they seem – and that help and advice is at hand:
Adeniyi Alade, Service Head Helplines (Childline), Scotland, said: “At Childline we know that results day and the period running up to it can be a really stressful time for young people and it is vital they feel supported and listened to.
“Young people often tell us they are worried they will get lower grades than they need to get into their preferred course or University, and they feel anxious and unsettled because it’s out of their control.
“Often, they have high expectations for themselves, or they feel their family is putting them under pressure to perform well.
“Some young people think their whole future depends on these results and this is their last chance to get into the further education course of their choice, or an apprenticeship that they have applied for. But it is important they know there are many options, whatever their grades are.
“It’s possible the young person could appeal their results or resit their exams the following year. They could also look at alternative courses or universities through clearing, and there’s the option of taking a gap year. Speaking to a teacher could be very helpful in assisting a young person to decide on which is the best option to take.
“If any young person is feeling apprehensive and worried about their results, I’d urge them to talk to someone about it.
“It can be very upsetting for a young person not to get the grades they had hoped for or expected, and it can affect their confidence. But it’s important for them to know that many others are going through the same thing and there are a range of options to explore.
“There are also lots of trusted adults they can turn to for help and support, whether that’s a teacher, careers advisor, parent, carer or Childline.
“Every year our specially trained counsellors carry out counselling sessions with hundreds of children across the UK who are worried about their exams and results. They listen to the young person’s concerns, offer advice about dealing with anxiety and help explore the different options available for those who don’t get their desired results.
“The conversation is confidential and no worry is ever too small.”
One student said: “It’s my first results day this week and I’m so nervous. I don’t want to let my parents down. They push me so hard to study and excel that I can’t even imagine how they’ll react if I get bad grades.
“I worry everyone at school will see me as a failure. I try to distract myself but when I remember results day is coming, I’m overwhelmed by anxiety and fear. I just wish someone would tell me it’ll all be ok.“ (Gender unknown, aged 16, from Scotland)
Another explaned: “I don’t know what will be of me if I don’t do well on my exams. I feel so stupid I didn’t prepare enough for them.
“My parents told me I shouldn’t stress too much, but I can feel the pressure since my siblings all did super well in their exams and are off to great careers. I didn’t have a good night sleep in over a week, and I worry I may pass out when the results are out.” (Girl, aged 16, from Scotland)
Young people under the age of 19 can get free, confidential support and advice from Childline at www.childline.org.uk or by calling 0800 1111 for free.
Top Italian American restaurant Frankie & Benny’s is giving away FREE pizza and Coke Zero to students celebrating their Scottish Highers results.
No matter what your exam grades are Frankie & Benny’s, the ultimate family friendly restaurant, will help you celebrate your hard work.
This offer entitles guests on Tuesday August 8 results day who show their exam results to a member of staff to a free Margarita Pizza (Vegan & Gluten Free Available) and a regular Coke (Coke Zero, Regular Coke, Diet Coke).
The free meal offer is available on August 8 in Scotland only and additional pizza toppings can be bought from the menu. There are no catches, you don’t have to buy anything just come in and celebrate with Frankie & Benny’s.
Frankie & Benny’s Marketing Director, Andreia Harwood, said: “We recognise that the cost of living crisis is hard on us all but we wanted to make sure our hard working students can celebrate their exam results day on us. This summer has all been about our customers still being able to enjoy great meals out with the family particularly over the summer months when kids are at home and we look for treats to entertain them.
“The summer savings and the exam results FREE offers are all about Frankie & Benny’s putting our customers at the forefront of everything we do and making sure they can have an amazing summer.”
This summer, Frankie & Benny’s, the popular Italian restaurant, want families and friends to enjoy meals out on a budget and have announced a series of summer saving meal deals
The deals were introduced to help families facing the cost of living crisis.
Frankie & Benny’s is offering two ‘always on’ summer promotion offers which are available now and until the end of August.
The first is a weekday offer available Monday to Friday after 7pm allowing guests to have two main courses of pizza, burgers and or pasta dishes for just £20. This will give a saving of up to £15.
Main courses available include the double bacon cheeseburger with fries, and the creamy chicken and ‘nduja fettucine- both solid favourites with Frankie & Benny fans.
The second deal is designed for family and friends dining out at the weekend. Throughout the summer Frankie & Benny’s is offering two for the price of one main meals all day Sunday, saving up to £21.90!
Dishes include the New York BBQ chicken loaded up with bacon, cheese, onion rings and fries, as well the classic Mac & Cheese (with, or without, bacon!).
Mexican favourite Chiquito is putting the fiesta fun in results day by giving away FREE Garlic Tortilla Bread and Coke Zero to students celebrating their Scottish Highers.
No matter what your exam grades are Chiquito, known for delicious food and tasty cocktails, will help you celebrate your hard work.
This offer entitles guests on Tuesday August 8 results day who show their exam results to a member of staff to get a free portion of Garlic Tortilla Bread and a regular Coke (Coke Zero, Regular Coke, Diet Coke).
The free meal offer is available on August 8 in Scotland only and additional dishes can be bought from the menu. There are no catches, you don’t have to buy anything just come in and have fun with Chiquito.
Chiquito Marketing Director, Andreia Harwood, said: “We recognise that the cost of living crisis is hard on us all but we wanted to make sure our hard working students can celebrate their exam results day on us.
“This summer has all been about our customers still being able to enjoy great meals out with the family and friends. The summer savings and the exam results FREE offers are all about Chiquito putting our customers at the forefront of everything we do and making sure they can have an amazing summer.”
This summer Chiquito has helped families and friends with a series of super saving meal deals.
Chiquito, which has been delivering the best of Mexican cuisine for over 30 years, has two amazing ‘always on summer deals’ designed to make dining out more affordable until August 31.
Between Monday to Friday (after 7pm) Chiquito is offering two main meals for £20, which includes delicious sizzling fajitas, tasty burritos, Tacos, chimichangas and enchiladas. This will save guests up to £15.
Chiquito is also offering a summer always on promotions two for the price of one main mealsall day Sunday which will help out those dining out at the weekend. This will save guests up to £21.90.
