This years exam results reveal good news for pupils across Argyll & Bute. The results announced by the Scottish Qualifications Authority show an increase in Higher and Advanced Higher pupils achieving pass marks, compared with last year, and an incredible 100% of National 3 and 4 students passing.

Over 80% of pupils sitting Advanced Highers achieved a pass, an increase in almost 5% on 2017 results. Although there was a slight decrease in the National 5 pass results, (1.24%,) it still remains higher than the national average. The pass rate for students achieving Higher Grade pass was up by nearly 3%, again above the national average.

Cllr Yvonne McNeilly, Policy Lead for Education said: “It has been a really tough couple of years  for education in Argyll and Bute, however I am really delighted that we have had a very good report from Education Scotland,  and with our exam results above the national average it shows we are moving in the right direction.

“The huge amount of work by pupils and staff in achieving this has been excellent, and I would like to thank all school staff for making our schools great places to learn. The greater school community has also played an outstanding part in these achievements, and parents and carers should feel proud of the achievements of our young people.”

With overall figures showing that attainment in Argyll and Bute is on the rise, there is no talk of complacency. Cllr McNeilly added “In Argyll and Bute we don't rest on our laurels. Our children deserve the  very best we can give them and I will continue to do my best to ensure we do just that; give them the very best of our efforts supporting them to get the best possible outcomes.”

For those pupils who maybe didn’t get the exam results they hoped for, it’s important to remember that help is on hand, and their school who can arrange support and advice and help them explore the various options open to them.