Stirling’s young people welcome SQA exam results for 2023

The young people of Stirling are looking to the future with confidence after receiving their SQA exam results.

A picture of six people, including two adults and four young people holding exam certificate scrolls, with the Wallace Monument in the background.
Scott Pennock, Head Teacher at Wallace High, and Bryony Monaghan, Head of Education at Stirling Council, with (L to R): Molly MacFarlane, Finlay McAndrew, Alexander Bland and Lauren McMeechan

The 2023 results, released today (Tuesday, 8 August 2023) show an increase in the number of Stirling’s young people who have achieved five qualifications at National Levels 3, 4 and 5.

The pass rate at Higher level is in line with the previous year (2022) and remains above pre-Covid levels.

The results announced today to pupils, including those at Wallace High School (pictured), are the first snapshot of attainment and achievement for the 2022/23 session. A fuller picture will be available later in the year when other accreditation, such as college courses and wider achievement awards, are finalised.

Positive

Cllr Margaret Brisley, Convener of the Children and Young People Committee, said: “These results highlight the positive learning environment that we provide across all our secondary schools in Stirling.

"The young people, parents, carers and staff are to be congratulated for their hard work, and today is about celebrating their achievements.

“Understandably, while many will be celebrating success, we know that some pupils may not have achieved the results they had hoped for and might be feeling worried or anxious.

“Our message to them is that we’re here for you and a wide range of supports are available, from advice on next steps to accessing a talk with someone about how you are feeling. Trained staff are here to listen and offer every guidance we can.”

Support

A breakdown of the SQA Attainment Statistics (August 2023) includes details of the National Qualification results by Education Authority

Stirling Council has a range of support services for school pupils, including a number of organisations offering guidance on next steps.

Individual schools can also be contacted for support and Young Scot includes valuable assistance and information on further opportunities for young people.

Two helplines are open for candidates following the issue of the exam results.

Skills Development Scotland has a helpline for young people who may have questions about their grades or considering what to do next. Their advisers can offer information on college and university vacancies, employment, training and other options.

Their helpline (0808 100 8000) will be open from 8am to 8pm on Tuesday 8 and Wednesday 9 August and from 9am-5pm on Thursday 10 and Friday 11 August.

The SQA Candidate Advice Line (0345 279 1000) provides information for candidates on the content and layout of their certificate. This will be open from 8am-6pm on Tuesday, 8th August and 8.30am-5pm Wed-Fri. For further info: www.sqa.org.uk