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The Herald Scotland
a day ago
- Politics
- The Herald Scotland
Fighting talk as school bullies dominate exam curriculum
All other subjects in school seem to have to fight to find a market niche. Mr. Page has the challenge of finding a solution to our school subjects historical boundary status when the 21st century is calling out for young people who can think differently than their fathers and mothers. I doubt if Mr. Page will be persuaded to adopt criterion referenced assessment when our political masters seem so satisfied to competitively rank all our pupils against each other. If 75.9% of Higher grade candidates get an A,B or C pass this year, will our new exam authority give the ones who failed a second chance, perhaps with on-line exams and targeted tutorials? Considering that the Scottish Qualifications Authority have a monopoly, I would have thought a sense of heavy responsibility would outweigh any blame it might transfer to schools. Bill Brown, Milngavie. Read more Testing times I NOTE that once again we are at the 'school exam results' time of the year. As usual, the television reporters present the viewer with scenes of self-congratulation involving both students and their proud parents. Whilst wishing the successful students every success in the next academic stage of their lives, my thoughts turn to their less successful and, no doubt disappointed, peers. One wonders what they made of the congratulatory hysteria? At least they were spared the indignity of exam results being posted in a glass cabinet on the outside of the facility building for the world to see. David Edgar, Biggar. Nothing novel about book festival IT is all very well for Chris Murray MP to request an end to criticism of the Edinburgh Book Festival (''Stop giving Edinburgh Book Festival pelters – or face losing it'', The Herald, July 23) for its choice of authors and ending of its Baillie Gifford sponsorship. Certainly, it is better to have a Book Festival than not to have one. But bullying by a group consisting of the self-satisfied and entitled saw Baillie Gifford, a generous benefactor, withdraw. This was intolerable and needed to be called out. Furthermore, it is incomprehensible that the editors of The Women Who Wouldn't Wheesht were not invited this year. Their subject is of great topical interest and does indeed involve ventilating 'ideas', as Mr Murray recommends. The book has been praised, and indeed fêted, but is not good enough for the Edinburgh Book Festival. I can only conclude that the organisers feared there would be a hostile reaction from trans activists if a book of gender realist essays were to feature. That is scarcely admirable. Instead, we have what will undoubtedly be a volume of self-justification, including on gender issues, by Nicola Sturgeon, who seems to have a regular slot at Edinburgh's Festivals. Will this reveal 'ideas' that we haven't already heard ad nauseam? Jill Stephenson, Edinburgh. Go West I DISAGREE with those who mourn the decline of Milngavie (Letters, August 6). One of the top things to do when visiting is to make your way to the start of the West Highland Way. I have no doubt that there are many who got to know of Milngavie because of this feature. I feel that much of the adverse commentary about the area is somewhat overstated. I am sure that there are many who would view it as a privilege to reside there. Ian W Thomson, Lenzie. Poor decision by SNP THE idea that Nicola Sturgeon deserves to be praised for scrapping prescription charges (Letters, August 6) needs to be challenged. In the first place, before this decision was made, most Scots were already eligible for free prescriptions. Only those earning above a certain level had to pay. In other words, despite the repeated claims of Sturgeon and the SNP that those with the broadest shoulders should pay more, they were given this benefit, as were the middle-classes and rich when they received the Winter Fuel Allowance. I find it rather obtuse to celebrate these Sturgeon middle-class freebies as an achievement when the money could have been better spent on the poor. Ian McNair, Cellardyke. Ducking responsibility IN days gone by people who acted in an objectionable way in small communities were thrown in the duck pond. Could this practice be restored in the modern age to deal with those actions which may not require the return of the death penalty, or lifetime imprisonment, but nevertheless irritate and disappoint in disproportionate degree? I have in mind such things as cutting down centuries old sycamore trees, throwing rubbish out car windows, spitting chewing gum on the pavement, leaving dog poo bags dangling from trees etc… Perhaps we could also have these miscreants placed in the stocks for a day of humiliation, attracting the derision of offended citizens. I accept that birching may be a step too far, but the principle still stands. Keith Swinley, Ayr. Spiderman (Tom Holland): Unmasked at last. Superhero swinger is welcome FOR all he's done for us, Spiderman can surely do no wrong, and I'm happy to extend my patience while he diverts the traffic around Glasgow on his visit ("Holland says hi" The Herald, August 6). With Antman arriving at Ibrox, it's like a Marvel team-up (or a conference of entomologists). Last week the film-crew planted the most mahoosive cherry picker I done seen on Wellington St, near to the most annoying defective street light in the city, which has been flickering neurotically for years, high on the side of an office block. Walking past on my way back from my Bath Street jazz club, I almost shouted to the set gaffer on the Spiderman movie, "See while you're up there, pal…?" As a gesture of goodwill, I'm sure it's something a wall-crawling friendly neighbourhood lightbulb replacement service would be happy to oblige. James Macleod, Cardonald.
Daily Record
2 days ago
- General
- Daily Record
South Lanarkshire pupils congratulated on exam results
Learners received Higher and Nationals results today and various advice helplines are now available Students across South Lanarkshire have received their exam results after weeks of waiting for the outcome of their National, Higher, Advanced Higher and vocational courses. They are among 147,000 learners across Scotland who received emails, text messages and certificates by post this week in what outgoing exams board the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) called a 'landmark year' with increased attainment rates. Advice on future education and career options is available through a number of helplines and websites as exam candidates now plan their next steps. Hamilton councillor Gavin Keatt, who is South Lanarkshire's acting chair of education resources, congratulated pupils at the area's 20 secondary schools and said: 'These achievements reflect months of hard work and will now help many of them take confident steps towards further study, apprenticeships, training or employment. 'I would also like to thank our teachers and support staff whose dedication, care and professionalism continue to make a lasting difference in the lives of our young people. 'We know that not every learner will have received the results they were hoping for – please remember that there are always alternative routes forward and help is available to guide next steps. Support is offered through our schools and from Skills Development Scotland, where expert advice can help young people navigate options and make informed decisions.' Lyndsay McRoberts, the council's executive director of education resources, added: 'None of these successes would have been possible without the efforts of our young people and the support they've received from their families, teachers and each other. 'We are proud of the strong foundations they have built and confident that these achievements will help guide them towards a positive and fulfilling future. We wish all our learners continued success as they move forward.' Council officials say pupils seeking help or advice should contact their school in the first instance; with the free appeals service now having launched and the SQA candidate advice line available on 0345 279 1000 for queries about certificates – while Skills Development Scotland's (SDS) helpline can be contacted on 0808 100 8000. SQA officials say overall attainment of A-C grades for National 5, Higher and Advanced Higher has increased since last year. A total of 75.9 per cent of the 202,490 Higher entries this year earned pass marks, with 30.8 per cent earning A grades. Learners also achieved a record 110,390 vocational and technical awards in areas including leadership, employability and personal finance, plus a range of skills-based qualifications in areas including cybersecurity, sports development and modern languages for life and work. Chief examining officer Donna Stewart said: 'Scotland's learners should be rightly proud today and we are proud of them; their hard work and commitment has made 2025 a landmark year. 'The rise in overall attainment at all three National qualification levels will rightly be welcomed in classrooms and staffrooms across Scotland. The number of vocational and technical qualifications passed 100,000 for the first time, and 2025 has also seen the poverty-related attainment gap narrow at all levels. 'All of those achievements are to be celebrated – and they belong to Scotland's learners. I also want to thank my fellow teachers, not only the thousands who play a critical role as markers, but every educator across Scotland for the work they do every day to support learners. 'Today is the last results day for the SQA, after three decades of service to Scotland. We are already working hard to ensure that [forthcoming new body] Qualifications Scotland builds upon the best of SQA while delivering positive change.' The annual SDS helpline is open from 8am to 8pm on Wednesday, August 6, and then from 9am to 5pm on Thursday and Friday, August 7 and 8, and is staffed by careers advisers offering guidance on university and college places, apprenticeships, jobs, volunteering and staying on at school. Dave McCallum of 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 provide expert support and guidance, and 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.' Clydesdale MSP Mairi McAllan praised young constituents receiving their results, saying: 'Today is a moment of pride for so many young people and their families. You've worked hard, adapted to challenges and shown real determination to reach this point. 'Results day can bring a whirlwind of emotions, whether relief, disappointment, or uncertainty. There are many routes to seek advice, whether that be through SDS centres or helplines staffed by skilled advisers ready to support young people and families. Our community is stronger when no one feels left behind.' Monica Lennon, the Central Scotland MSP, said: 'A huge well done to every young person who received their exam results. Their hard work and determination deserve real celebration. 'It's great to see record numbers heading to university and college, especially from our most disadvantaged communities. We must also applaud the rise in vocational and technical qualifications – these achievements show the value of practical skills and the need to invest in pathways beyond university, especially as we build a fairer, greener economy.' And did you know Lanarkshire Live had its own app? Download yours for free here.
Daily Record
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Record
Scots pupils delighted with their SQA exam results success
The Record spoke to some of the happy pupils celebrating on results day. Proud pupils spoke of their plans for the future as they celebrated exam success across the country yesterday. Students at Kings Park Secondary School in Glasgow jumped for joy as they learned their Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) grades alongside Education Secretary Jenny Gilruth. In East Renfrewshire, there were record-breaking results for S4 pupils sitting National 5 exams. Twin brothers Adam and Matthew Darroch, 16, from Clarkston, both secured identical exam results. The St Ninian's High pupils both got 9 As in their National 5s but are firmly focused on different career paths. Matthew said: 'My brother got his results first and when he did so well that made it even more nerve-wracking. I was delighted when my results eventually came through and I'd done just as well. "I'm planning on doing something with computing, which is a completely different career direction than my brother is thinking about.' Adam, who is still to decide on a future job, said: 'Obviously having a twin there's competition between us, but it's always done in a fun way.' St Luke's High pupil Vidhi Chanyal, from Barrhead, landed 5As at Higher after having her first novel published at the end of 2024. The 17-year-old said: 'I'm really passionate about developing my writing skills and plan to take that forward by studying English Literature at university. I'm delighted with my exam results which will allow me to follow my passion.' Friends Lulu Bryce and Thomas McIntyre who had lead roles in Harlequin Youth Theatre's production of Bugsy Malone earlier this summer both gained excellent National 5 results despite combining an intense rehearsal schedule with studies at St Ninians. Lulu, 16, from Eaglesham, said: 'I'm thankful that I've now got the rewards for all my hard work.' At Boroughmuir High School in Edinburgh, S5 leaver Alex Blues is set to start a job with a local building firm while fellow fifth year pupil Sneha Gadi is returning to school following her exams. She said: 'I'm hoping to study medicine at university and work towards a career where I can make a difference.'
Scotsman
3 days ago
- Politics
- Scotsman
Scotland exam results: Ministers under pressure for failing to close poverty-related attainment gap
PA Attainment has risen in the last year but the gap between pupils from the wealthiest and most deprived backgrounds remains almost static Sign up to our daily newsletter – Regular news stories and round-ups from around Scotland direct to your inbox Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to The Scotsman, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... Ministers are facing increasing pressure to close the poverty-related attainment gap as a crucial government-set target looks certain to be missed. Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) results show the level of attainment across National 5, Highers and Advanced Highers increased in 2025 compared to last year. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad But figures released by the SQA also show the gap between pupils from the wealthiest and most deprived backgrounds remains almost static, closing by just 0.1 percentage point. In 2015, while First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon pledged the elimination of the attainment gap was 'a yardstick by which the people of Scotland can measure our success', and the 2016 Programme For Government said the disparity would be significantly reduced by 2026. On a visit to meet pupils at Glasgow's King's Park High School, Education Secretary Jenny Gilruth said progress had been made but cited the pandemic and austerity measures from Westminster governments. She said the country now has a 'markedly different' education system than existed in 2016 and making direct comparisons is 'challenging'. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad 'A decade on we've had a global pandemic. We've also had austerity policies which have harmed some of our most vulnerable families. 'And I'm always struck by that in my school visits, the normalisation of anti-poverty policies within our schools now.' Ms Gilruth said that when she was last teaching, around 15 years ago, anti-poverty measures did not exist in classrooms. 'So our schools are stepping up to that challenge,' she added. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad 'They're having to use resources like the Pupil Equity Fund (PEF), which has come from that funding that Nicola Sturgeon committed to, that they should not have to be doing.' Ms Gilruth pointed again to the slight narrowing in attainment gap figures and said that progress 'should be supplemented' by progress in literacy and numeracy in primary schools. PA 'We also see the narrowing of the poverty related attainment gap in terms of positive destinations, which have narrowed since 2009 and 2010 by two thirds,' she added, pointing to UCAS data that shows more young people from poorer backgrounds are going on to university. The number of 18-year-olds from Scotland's most deprived areas securing places at university has increased by 100 to 1,960, which is a record high. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad The number of young Scots who have secured a place at university this year has also increased to a new high of 16,340 acceptances for 18-year-olds, up four per cent on last year. Scottish Labour Education Spokesperson Pam Duncan-Glancy called the SNP's fudging of the 2026 target 'damning'. 'Almost a decade on and SNP ministers are refusing to own up to Scots that they have repeatedly made promises that they are unable to deliver upon,' Ms Duncan-Glancy said. 'Education is a devolved matter and the responsibility of the Scottish Government, and yet Jenny Gilruth instead chooses to make excuses for the SNP's atrocious record. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad 'Scotland's young people are being held back by a failing SNP government, with ministers consistently shirking responsibility for their own failures.' Scottish Conservative shadow education secretary Miles Briggs also said 'no amount of spin' could detract from the failure to eradicate the attainment gap. SQA results show that the gap between the most and least deprived pupils obtaining A to C grades at National 5 was 16.6 per cent, with the gap at Higher 17.1 per cent and Advanced Higher standing at 12.8 per cent. For Higher, this is a shift of 0.1 per cent from 17.2 per cent last year. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad The gap between the most and least deprived pupils achieving A grades at Advanced Higher has widened by almost three per cent since prior to the pandemic. Mr Briggs said: 'Frankly, no amount of spin from them can avoid the fact that Nicola Sturgeon's promises in relation to the attainment gap lie in tatters. 'She wanted to eradicate it completely yet still there is a huge gap in the results achieved by those from our most and least deprived communities. 'It should be a source of shame for Nicola Sturgeon and John Swinney that those from the most deprived communities are still facing a postcode lottery when it comes to educational achievement.' Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad In Glasgow, which faces some of the worst rates of deprivation in Scotland, Advance Higher attainment has seen a marked increase. The number of S6 pupils achieving one or more qualification at that level rose by 1.4 per cent. This is despite the closure of a specialist facility at Glasgow Caledonian University designed to help pupils from disadvantaged backgrounds study for Advanced Highers. Douglas Hutchison, executive director of education at Glasgow city council, said the local authority had moved to share resources between secondary schools to ensure pupils did not miss out. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Some young people will travel to other schools in the city to study subjects not available at their own secondary. Mr Hutchison said: 'Our consortium arrangements have worked out really well and the evidence of that is in the increased attainment.' He added that additional resource is necessary in schools to make a significant difference to attainment figures. 'We've got great teachers in our schools,' he said. 'It's the additional support around teachers to make their life a bit more straightforward that has been eroded over the years in different ways. 'But I do think things are going in the right direction.' Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad This year's Higher pass rate is 75.9 percent, an increase of one percentage point compared to the previous year. Other than 2019 and 2024, it is the lowest Higher pass rate in the past 15 years. Results have fallen from the record highs of 2023 but have increased on last year. The pass rates for National 5 and Highers were similar to pre-pandemic levels but for Advanced Higher dropped to 3 per cent lower than in 2019. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad The number of pupils with an A to C grade for National 5 qualifications rose from 77.2 per cent last year to 78.4 per cent this year.
Scotsman
3 days ago
- General
- Scotsman
Scotland exam results RECAP: Latest updates as young people receive SQA results
There is a lot of help and support on offer today. The SQA helpline (0345 279 1000) will be open from 8am to 6pm on Tuesday, and 8.30am to 5pm on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. Pupils receiving results of the Scottish Qualifications Authority exams. | Getty Images Skills Development Scotland (SDS) also has a results helpline, which opens at 8am on Tuesday. The SDS Results Helpline will be staffed by expert careers advisers to assist anybody that needs help with their options and next steps. The helpline is designed to provide impartial career information, advice, and guidance. The 2025 SDS Results Helpline is 0808 100 8000 and will be open on Tuesday and Wednesday from 8am to 8pm, and Thursday and Friday from 9am to 5pm. Courtney McLaughlin, a Kilmarnock Academy pupil who is now 17, called the helpline in August last year to get advice about her SQA results from her fourth-year exams after not getting the National 5 grades she had hoped for in English and history. 'I was so upset when I opened my results that I started crying and called the results helpline for help,' she said. 'The adviser calmed me down and made me feel much better through our conversation. I was able to see that it was not the end of the world and that I still had options. They advised me to speak to my teacher, who reassured me that I could re-take those subjects in fifth year, if I wanted.'
