And the message from South Lanarkshire Council is clear – regardless of whether or not the results are what you expected, support and help is available.

Chair of the council’s Education Resources Committee, Councillor Lynsey Hamilton, said: “Congratulations to all our young people who I know have been working extremely hard in the lead up to this day.

“It is also important to say that traditional exam results are only one part of the Senior Phase of secondary education, where we recognise and support young people to develop their skills for learning, life and work. 

“During S4 to S6, many young people achieve success by gaining qualifications in other areas which provide entry to work, modern apprenticeships, further education and training courses which are all designed to provide them with opportunities to progress and we also recognise these as personal achievements to be celebrated.

“Where a young person may not have received the grades or qualifications they set out to achieve, they may be disappointed. However, if this is the case, I would wish to reassure them that support and guidance is on hand to help them either at their school or by contacting Skills Development Scotland.

“Anyone looking for help, guidance or support can contact Skills Development Scotland on 0808 100 8000 or go to the My World of Work website.”

Tony McDaid, Executive Director of Education, said: “Today, and over the next few days and weeks, I want to take this opportunity along with our schools to celebrate the achievements of our young people across South Lanarkshire after many months and years of study. 

“This year saw pupils return to sitting examinations following the public health restrictions placed on schools across Scotland over the last two years. 

“Young people deserve enormous credit for the resilience they have shown during this uncertain period.

“I hope their diligence and hard work will have helped them to achieve the results they deserve and I am pleased to say that early indications are that overall results are positive.

“I wish to acknowledge the support pupils received from staff, parents and families throughout their learning journey but especially the way they supported young people through the recent SQA exam diet. 

“The learning journey for our young people still continues as they may decide to stay on at school, move into the world of work, college, university or training and I wish them every success for the future.”