Levels of attainment have improved at all examination levels this year following the results being released.
Compared to last year’s results, levels of attainment have shown improvements in Nationals, Highers and Advanced Highers as well as National Progression Awards, Skills for Work Awards and National Certificates and Awards.
Councillor Gavin Keatt, Acting Chair of the council’s Education Resources Committee, said: “These improvements show the positive attitude that our students have shown to achieve these grades after months of hard work in the run up to sitting these exams.
“Their successes will give them the boost they need to take their next chosen steps into further study, apprenticeships, training or employment.
“I would also like to thank our teachers and support staff whose dedication, care and professionalism continue to make a lasting difference in the lives of our young people.”
This year’s results have shown an increase in pupil presentations at National 5, with National 5 attainment levels continuing to remain strong and above national averages. In 2025, 48.6% of S4 learners achieved five or more National 5 awards at grades A-C, compared to 47.1% in 2024.
Higher attainment also continues to improve and remains in line with national levels. In S5 those achieving five or more Higher awards at grades A-C rose from 17.9% in 2024 to 18.5% in 2025. There was also an increase in the numbers gaining three or more Higher awards at grades A-C, rising from 36.8% in 2024 to 38.6% in 2025.
And at Advanced Higher, attainment has shown further improvement. In S6, Advanced Higher award at grades A-C increased from 20.9% in 2024 to 21.2% in 2025.
Lyndsay McRoberts, the council’s Executive Director of Education Resources, said: “It is important to recognise that examination results represent only one aspect of our young people’s achievements.
“Our ongoing commitment to providing all learners with appropriate opportunities for success is reflected in this year’s figures, with an increase in the number of S4 pupils attaining 5 or more course awards, as well as an increase in National Progression Awards (NPAs) and Skills for Work course awards.
“We know that not every learner will have received the results they were hoping for. Please remember that there are always alternative routes forward and help is available to guide next steps.”
Pupils seeking help and advice can get in touch with the Skills Development Scotland Results Helpline on 0808 100 8000.
