OVER 4000 young people from across North Ayrshire opened their exam results yesterday and early analysis of the results shows continued success at a range of levels.

A higher proportion of S4 pupils who sat National 5 qualifications in 2019 achieved success than in 2018.

Similarly, at Higher level, the number of pupils who gained at least one Higher award at grades A-D in 2019 was up on the same figure in previous years. Indeed, the proportion of overall Higher entries that resulted in an award increase in 2019.

In addition to this, pupils achieved success in a whole range of other academic and vocational qualifications.

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 and Employment, said: “It’s great to see the continued success of our young people through these results and a huge well done to all of them. A big congratulations to all the hard-working staff across North Ayrshire who I know work incredibly hard and take great pride in the achievements of the young people.”

Councillor Joe Cullinane, Leader of North Ayrshire Council, added: "Young people across North Ayrshire have worked extremely hard over the last year and that is reflected in today’s results.

“While this is a day of celebration for many, there will be some who might not get the results they had hoped for. Clearly that is going to be disappointing but, please remember, that this is just the start and there are options available that will allow you to pursue your chosen career – there is really is no wrong path.

“If you need to talk to someone about your results there are numerous groups and people out there who can listen and provide really good advice and support. The Skills Development Scotland national exam result helpline is free to contact and staff at your school are there to help too.”

As well as the support at home and within our schools, pupils can also receive guidance from Skills Development Scotland. The dedicated SDS Exam Results Helpline – 0808 100 8000 - will be open from 8am to 8pm on Tuesday 6 and Wednesday, August 7, and from 9am to 5pm weekdays from Thursday 8 until Wednesday, August 14.

Other helpful numbers for those who want to speak to someone about their exam results are:

ChildLine

0800 11 11

Breathing Space

0800 83 85 87

Samaritans

116 123

www.samaritans.org.uk provides a 24 hour listening service to people in crisis or despair. You can also contact them anonymously by email: jo@samaritans.org

Parentline

0808 028 22 33