Over 2,000 young people in Moray receive SQA exam results
Early indications show pupils across Moray’s secondary schools have achieved encouraging results in their SQA exams again this year. Some pupils have done exceptionally well, and overall performance remains steady across schools.
S4 pupils have done particularly well. Around 4,000 National five qualifications were awarded, with an A–C pass rate of 78%. This shows a small, positive rise from last year. More pupils also achieved five or more National 5s.
Results for S5 pupils show encouraging progress. Just under 2,000 Higher qualifications were awarded, with an A-C pass rate of 74%, which has gone up by 4% compared to last year. The number of young people achieving three or more passes at SCQF Level 6 (Higher) is similar to last year.
For S6 pupils, 68% of Advanced Higher qualifications were awarded at A–C grades, also a small improvement. Although there was a slight drop in S6 Higher results, many pupils are moving on to university, college, apprenticeships or jobs based on their results.
Leader of Moray Council and Chair of the Education, Children’s and Leisure Services Committee, Cllr Kathleen Robertson, said: “Well done to all our young people getting their results today. We know how much effort you’ve put in, and whether you’re celebrating or still thinking about what comes next, you should be proud. I’d also like to thank the staff, families and carers who’ve helped our pupils reach this point. No matter what your results are, support is there for you.”
In response to this year’s SQA examination results, Vivienne Cross, Head of Education (Chief Education Officer) at Moray Council said: “A huge well done to all our learners who received their results today. This is a moment to recognise your hard work and the progress you’ve made, whatever your outcome. I also want to thank our teachers and support staff for the guidance they’ve provided throughout the year. While we’re pleased with many of the outcomes, we recognise there is still more to do. Quality of passes, number of presentations, and raising aspirations with our parents/carers and young people remain key priorities. Closing the attainment gap continues to be a focus, and we’re working closely with schools to support all learners in reaching their full potential.”
“For those moving on to new opportunities or returning to school after the summer, we wish you the very best for what lies ahead. Remember, your journey is just beginning, and support is always available to help you take your next step.”
Lossiemouth High School saw particularly positive results in S4 this year. Head Teacher Caroline Boyd said: “I’m particularly proud of our S4 pupils for their results this year. Their hard work and the dedication of our staff really paid off. We’ll keep supporting all our learners as they plan what’s next. I’d also like to recognise the efforts of pupils across other year groups, who have shown great commitment to their learning throughout the year.”
Moray Council continues to support the national #NoWrongPath campaign, which reminds young people that there are many different ways to reach their goals and that success looks different for everyone.
Pupils who would like to talk through their options are encouraged to contact their school in the first instance. Additional support is available through Skills Development Scotland’s free exam results helpline on 0808 100 8000.
The SQA Candidate Advice Line can be reached on 0345 279 1000, and further guidance is available at www.sqa.org.uk or by following @sqanews on social media.
While many young people across Moray have achieved positive outcomes, it’s clear that more work is needed to raise overall attainment and ensure equity in education, particularly as progress in Moray still falls behind national levels in some areas. Moray Council remains committed to closing the attainment gap and supporting all learners, particularly those facing additional challenges. The early data provides only part of the picture, and the full national Insight report due in September will give a more complete view of attainment, including wider qualifications such as Foundation Apprenticeships, NPAs and college-based learning. This will help inform targeted improvement work across our schools.