Results day always brings mixed emotions – be proud of yourself 

Young people across Scotland receive their exam results today, and the Children’s Commissioner has recognised that it will be a day of mixed emotions. 

National, Higher, and Advanced Higher exam results are published today. So too are Skills for Work Awards, National Progression Awards and National Certificates.  

Some children will be delighted with their results, while others will be disappointed, and Commissioner Nicola Killean has reminded them: “Your results don’t define you.” 

Education has been a priority issue for the Commissioner, and she has consistently called for wide-ranging reform to the system in Scotland. She has brought together children and education leaders at three Shoogle Lab events to shake up education.  

Nicola told children: “I know many of you will be thrilled with your results today, and you deserve to enjoy this moment. 

“But I’d like to remind those who are upset that exam results don’t always reflect the unique, special person you are. The right to education is about so much more than exam success, and whatever your results, there will be lots of opportunities for you. So don’t panic, take a deep breath, use organisations out there to help you work out your next steps, and remember you have options.” 

Last year, the Commissioner published a report which recommended changes to the education system, including changes to exams and assessments. Children told her they feel under pressure to the point it is impacting their mental and physical health, and explained exams don’t suit everyone.  

She said: “Exams and assessments have a role in the education system, but they should not dominate it. I have been calling for children to be listened to when it comes to change in the education system, and that’s exactly what our Shoogle Lab events are doing. 

“At the Shoogle Lab, children – including those with additional support needs – have shared their views with education leaders, representatives from HMIE, Qualifications Scotland, and Education Scotland.  

“It’s not enough for decision-makers just to listen though – I want them to act on what children tell them and ensure that children and young people’s participation is at the heart of change to the education system.”