Scotland’s school pupils have been congratulated on another year of high achievement by Education Secretary Michael Russell.
His comments came after publication of the 2012 National Course Results by the Scottish Qualification Authority (SQA). Key statistics include:
- Overall pass rate for Advanced Highers increased by 0.8 per cent to 80.1 per cent in 2012
- Overall pass rate for Highers has increased by 1.7 per cent to 76.9 per cent
- Overall pass rate for Intermediate Level One increased by 0.1 per cent to 76.1 per cent
- Overall pass rate for Intermediate Level Two decreased by 0.1 per cent to 80.2 per cent
- Overall pass rate for Standard Grades up 0.4 per cent to 98.9 per cent
Speaking ahead of a visit to his former school Marr College in Troon, Mr Russell said:
“I would like to congratulate Scottish pupils on their endeavours in 2012. This has been another successful year which is testament to the hard work that pupils have put into their courses.
“Through Curriculum for Excellence, we want to ensure that Young Scots have an even greater platform to maximise their chances of success in the global jobs market and that Scotland is the best place in the world to start their working lives.
“Of course, as well as being a time of celebration for many, this is also a time of uncertainty for others. Rest assured, help is available through the Exam Results Helpline on 0808 100 8000 for those who may not have got what they needed.
“We have guaranteed every 16 to 19 year old a place in education or training through Opportunities for All and Helpline advisers are on hand to talk young people through the options available to them, should it be further study, a training place or employment.
“Behind today’s statistics are thousands of individual young people, each with their own set of results and ambitions for the future. Today is a day to celebrate their achievements.”
However the improvement in pass rates was questioned by BBC Scotland education correspondent Seonag MacKinnon, who wrote:
“Success in any qualification represents a real achievement for the individual candidate. But employers and universities who have to run what some term remedial classes in key skills, are left wondering about the value of exam passes.”
Pupils and parents can phone the Exam Results Helpline on 0808 100 8000.
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