EXAM PASSES UP: MIDLOTHIAN NORTH MSP PRAISES LEARNERS AND TEACHERS

ATTAINMENT GAP NARROWS AS MSP HIGHLIGHTS SUPPORT FOR NEXT STEPS
 
Colin Beattie MSP for Midlothian North has praised the hard work of learners and teachers with exam passes up at all levels.
 
As students across Midlothian North receive their exam results, pass rates for National 5, Highers and Advanced Highers have all increased again, including a record number of National 5 passes.
 
Meanwhile, learners have also achieved a record number of vocational and technical qualifications, up by 121% on pre-pandemic levels.
 
The results also show that the poverty related attainment gap has narrowed compared with last year and pre-pandemic levels in 2019.
 
Now, Colin Beattie MSP has highlighted support available to help pupils and families take their next steps with confidence.
 
Skills Development Scotland (SDS) offers a free Results Helpline, providing expert advice on everything from:
 
- UCAS confirmation and clearing
- College and university vacancies
- Foundation, Modern, and Graduate Apprenticeships
- Job, volunteering, and training opportunities
- Staying on at school
 
The helpline, staffed by experienced careers advisers, is available at 0808 100 8000, open from 8am to 8pm on the 4th and 5th August, and 9am to 5pm on the 6th and 7th. Locally, students can also access one-to-one guidance by dropping into a SDS Careers Centre, open throughout Results Week.
 
Commenting, SNP MSP Colin Beattie said:
 
“Today is a moment of pride for so many young people, their families and teachers - I want to congratulate everyone in Midlothian North.
 
“Across the Scotland, pass rates have increased with a record number of National 5 passes and our learners have also achieved a record number of vocational and technical qualifications – that’s something our schools, colleges and young people should be proud of.
 
“John Swinney is focussed on narrowing the attainment gap and having empowered headteachers and invested £1.75 billion in the Scottish Attainment Challenge over the past decade, I am particularly delighted to see that gap narrow today. 
 
“Today can be a whirlwind of emotions, with some experiencing joy, relief, disappointment, or uncertainty - that’s why we have ensured every young person has access to free, professional guidance. There is no wrong path.
 
“Equality of opportunity is something the SNP Scottish Government will always put front and centre of our education system – today reflects that and I wish all young people in Midlothian North all the very best in whatever they choose to do next.”
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ENDS