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Making Scotland smarter
05/08/2008
School pupils are achieving exam results which will contribute to raising Scotland's profile in the global economy.
For the great majority of pupils who will receive their exam results today, it will be good news - and Fiona Hyslop, Cabinet Secretary for Education and Lifelong Learning, said their achievements were a sign of how Scotland's economic future continues to look bright.
Over 158,000 candidates studied for qualifications - up from 156,000 last year. While there has been a dip in the number of entries for Standard Grades, entries have increased at all other levels, especially at Access and Intermediate. Pass rates overall show a small but encouraging increase in attainment.
Ms Hyslop said:
"I want to congratulate pupils all over Scotland for their achievements today. I know today's results represent months of dedication and hard work by them and their teachers, combined with support of their parents and friends have resulted in the certificates they have received today.
"As Scotland's young people continue to aim high and achieve so much, we can look to a future where Scotland is smarter and we can compete on equal terms with the rest of the world, even in these difficult economic times. The continuing healthy uptake and attainment in science and modern languages by our young people demonstrates the continued drive to make Scotland a more competitive place to do business."
Careers Scotland - exam results helpline
0808 100 8000
Ms Hyslop also had words of advice for those who have not achieved the news they were hoping for. She said:
"For those who have not received the grades they were aiming for today, there is comprehensive advice and support out there to guide them through the many options that can help them realise their goals."
The Careers Scotland exam results helpline - 0808 100 8000 - can offer advice on different courses and opportunities available. The SQA candidate helpline is also available on 0845 278 8080.
The current National Qualification courses began to be phased in from August 1999. There are five levels of award, designed to provide challenging qualifications for pupils of all abilities:
- Access (available at three levels)
- Intermediate 1
- Intermediate 2
- Higher
- Advanced Higher
- Standard Grade results are also included in the exam results.