Exam results helpline to provide support for Glasgow pupils
The dedicated Skills Development Scotland helpline, which has helped tens of thousands of young Scots over the last 33 years, will open from 8am tomorrow (Tuesday, August 5) to support young people receiving Higher, National and Advanced Higher results.
The helpline will 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.
Abraham says the helpline supported him last year (Image: Newsquest)
Former St Ninian's High School pupil Abraham called the helpline last year when he did not receive the straight As he needed in his Highers to study medicine at his chosen university.
'I was extremely worried,' he said. 'I called the helpline and the adviser was very calm when I explained my situation.'
The adviser also gave Abraham guidance on the steps to appeal for one of his grades, which was successful.
Abraham, who decided to stay on at school to take Advanced Highers, now has a conditional place at Queen's University Belfast and the offer of a scholarship to study Mandarin at Tianjin Normal University in China.
'Whatever happens with my results, I know I have options and will be able to do something positive to keep progressing and learning,' he said. 'I'm really excited about my future.'
The number for the 2025 Results Helpline is 0808 100 8000. It will be open from 8am until 8pm on August 5 and 6, and from 9am until 5pm on August 7 and 8.
Education Secretary Jenny Gilruth said: 'Results day is an important opportunity to celebrate achievement and success which is clear through a wider range of pathways for learners than ever before.
'There are many options available for young people, no matter the results they achieve, and the helpline offers invaluable advice on a whole host of issues – from college and university places, to UCAS confirmation and clearing, apprenticeships, jobs and volunteering.'
Dave McCallum, head of career information, advice and guidance operations at SDS, said: '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 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.'
Exam results helpline advisers (Image: SDS)
Charity Childline, which delivered 706 counselling sessions across the UK to young people worried about exam results in 2024, says feeling overwhelmed on results day is 'natural'.
Adeniyi Alade, service head of Childline in Scotland, said: 'Exam results day can be an overwhelming time for young people across Scotland, and it's natural to feel pressure or uncertainty about what comes next.
'At Childline, we want to reassure young people that their value isn't defined by grades. There are many different routes to success and not getting the results you hoped for doesn't close the door on your future.
'Childline is here for any young person who may be feeling overwhelmed, anxious or just needs someone to talk to.'
Young people can contact Childline on 0800 1111 or via 1-2-1 chat on www.childline.org.uk
Adults with concerns about a child can contact the NSPCC Helpline by calling 0808 800 5000 or emailing help@NSPCC.org.uk
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