Published on:
08
August 2023
The Council has praised the continued hard work and resilience of our young people as they receive their official results from the SQA today.
Results this year continue to reflect the diversity in young people’s pathways through our education system, with no learner journey being the same.
Each of our schools continues to ensure that every young person is able to achieve their full potential by gaining the best qualifications possible.
Overall, the official results show an increase in number of presentations compared to last year.
Compared to pre-COVID levels (when SQA exams were conducted in a similar way) there is an increase of 8% in the number of National 5s awarded at 74% pass rate and a 5% increase in the number of Highers; a pass rate of 69%.
Of the pupils who passed their assessments, there is a higher percentage of A and C passes being awarded at National 5, a higher percentage of B and C passes at Higher and a higher percentage of A and C passes at Advanced Higher.
Additionally, more young people in Clackmannanshire achieved five National 5s compared to the previous year. The overall S4 cohort achievement is better than last year and there is a 5% increase in National 4 awards and wider achievement awards.
By individual subject, there is an increase in the percentage of young people passing National 5 and Higher English; a 30% increase in National 4 Science subjects and an increase in National 5 Biology, Chemistry and Physics.
Reflecting our commitment to heath and wellbeing, there was an increase in the number of young people in S5 sitting National 4 and Higher Physical Education (PE) in S5 and an overall increase in Higher PE across all cohorts.
Our results are broadly in line with the national picture and the pass rate remains higher than before the pandemic.
The number of A passes are almost in line with the national picture, especially at Higher, 32.3% in Clackmannanshire and 32.8% nationally.
Our young people are also achieving higher than the national figure in National 5 business management, geography and chemistry.
Councillor Graham Lindsay, spokesperson for education, said: “These results demonstrate a relentless effort and resilience from our young people. Pivotal to their success has been the fantastic support offered by teachers, support staff and families.
“For many of the young people, these qualifications and achievements support them into a new and exciting stage in their lives, be it further/higher education, training or employment. I want to take this opportunity to wish them good luck for the future.”
Colin Bruce, the Council’s Chief Education Officer, said: “We are very fortunate to work with amazing young people and families. The strong partnerships we have in place ensure that our learners get the best start in life.
“The SQA results are one of the important measures that demonstrate the progress being made in our Clackmannanshire learning establishments. I want to thank the young people for all of their hard work. We are all very proud of your achievements.
“To the staff, families and partners who have supported our learners, I also want to thank you for your relentless commitment. It takes team work, and your support is vital.
“I want to emphasis that while SQA qualifications are an important part of pupil progression, our learners are also increasingly demonstrating that they are flourishing in wider achievements, digital approaches and in wellbeing measures. Ensuring our learners are heathy, happy and supported is hugely important to us.”
School staff are on hand with help and advice, and the Skills Development Scotland results helpline is on 0808 100 8000.
Clackmannanshire offer a range of mental health services for young people that may be useful at this time.
Kooth.com provides free, safe and anonymous support for anyone aged 10-26.
The Text Clacks service (text Clacks to 85258) offers text-based support to anyone experiencing mental health difficulties, including those in crisis.
There is also a wide range of mental health supports available at our Directory of Support website.