MORE than 3200 pupils from across North Ayrshire opened their exam results last week.

Early analysis of the results shows that North Ayrshire’s schools continue to build on the success of the last few years with pupils across the authority waking up to excellent results at a range of levels.

Increased levels of aspiration are evident at S4, where a greater proportion of pupils than ever before have achieved qualifications at National 5 level.

Furthermore, a higher percentage of the results are at grades A and B.

There are good performances at Higher level in S5 and these compare favourably with the five year trend across North Ayrshire’s schools.

In addition, more of our S6 pupils are achieving qualifications at Advanced Higher, with performances this year being our best to date.

Further analysis will be undertaken in the coming weeks and months within and across our schools and departments to establish the key highlights and areas for further focused improvement.

Councillor John Bell, Cabinet Member for Education, Attainment and Achievement, said: “Receiving your exam results is always a huge day for everyone. It will be a day of celebration for lots of our pupils and their families so a huge well done to them and, of course, their teachers and other school staff who are there to help and advise them throughout the year.

“Whatever results come through the door today, I know that our staff in schools have been and will continue to work hard to support all our young people with planning their next steps, whether that is in school, at further or higher education, in employment or training.”

Councillor Joe Cullinane, Leader of North Ayrshire Council, visited some of the schools and pupils on their big day. He added: “I know how hard our young people have worked and was pleased to be able to join some of them, and their teachers, to congratulate them.”

Pupils looking for advice and support can call the dedicated Exam Results Helpline which has been set up by Skills Development Scotland (SDS).

The helpline - which is open until 5pm today (August 16) – offers advice on college and university course vacancies, confirmation and clearing, and advice about Modern or Foundation Apprenticeships, employment or volunteering.

Calls are free on 0808 100 8000 (operator charges may apply). Students can also access help, advice and support through the SDS “MY World of Work” website: www.myworldofwork.co.uk/examresults.

In addition, all S4-S6 pupils will be given the opportunity, where necessary, to speak to a senior member of staff regarding their option choices when they return to school later this month.