SQA results 2021: Almost every Dumbarton and the Vale pupil celebrate achieving qualifications

Traditional National 5, Higher and Advanced Higher exams were replaced with a continuous assessment scheme based on classwork, with moderation and "quality assurance" in schools.

The revised system replaced last year's scrapping of exams but with little alternative model in place because of the pandemic.

West Dunbartonshire Council said this year 2,136 pupils were entered for qualifications with 2,110 achieving one or more qualification.

Results published through the council today highlight a record pass rate in National 5 exams with 3,980 passes (93 per cent) out of 4,267 entries — which has increased by 9 per cent from last year. About 96 per cent of these students achieved one or more qualifications.

The level of award received was also high – with 72 per cent of National 5 awards pupils receiving grades A or B.

The National 4 pass rate was maintained at the 2020 level of 93 per cent, which represented an increase on previous years.

L-R: Isla MacFarlane, 18, Daniel Wreford, 17, Leona Boyd, 18, Gemma Russell, 18, of Vale of Leven Academy

Higher students also achieved strong results, with a 96 per cent pass rate up 16.3 per cent from last year, 97 per cent of pupils gaining one or more qualification and 76 per cent of passes at either grade A or B.

At Advanced Higher, 95 per cent of pupils passed, up 11 per cent on last year’s results with 95 per cent achieving one or more qualification and 77 per cent of passes either grade A or B.

In addition, the percentage of passes across all levels in literacy and numeracy across West Dunbartonshire schools has risen by 11 per cent.

The council said that throughout the year, schools have been working in partnership with WD Leisure, Working4U, West College Scotland, Glasgow Kelvin College, Glasgow Caledonian University and Focus West programmes to offer additional routes to further education and employment.

Jennifer Inglis, 16, and Sean Potts, 18, of Dumbarton Academy

Councillor Karen Conaghan, convener of educational services, said: “I would like to congratulate all of our pupils who have worked so hard and continued to achieve through one of the most challenging academic years.

"It is very encouraging to see nearly 100 per cent of pupils achieving at least one qualification and a 9 per cent increase in National 5 exams.

“I would like to sincerely thank all of our dedicated teachers and support staff who have worked tirelessly to assist our pupils through the pandemic and all of our parents and carers who have done so much to support children.

"This year has been particularly difficult for pupils who have had to endure periods of home learning due to Covid and these results are a real testament to the hard work of our pupils and the fantastic staff who support them.”

Amy McInnes, 18, and Nicholas Dunn, 17, of Our Lady of St Patrick's

Councillor Ian Dickson, vice convener, added: “These results are a great achievement and recognition for all of the effort and commitment shown by our pupils and their families.

“I want to congratulate all of our pupils on their results this year and wish them every success in the future whether they are staying on at school or moving into further or higher education, employment or training.”

Laura Mason, Chief Education Officer, said: “It is hugely encouraging to see these positive results again this year which are a reflection of all the hard work by both our pupils and all of our teaching and support staff over the year.

"Despite the challenges faced by our young people, they have shown amazing commitment and resilience, working hard whether in school or at home. We are extremely proud of all of our young people and today is about celebrating all of their achievements.

“I would like to express my sincere thanks to all our school staff, who have continued to motivate and inspire their pupils to learn and achieve despite the challenges they faced during the pandemic.

"Pupils can now contact their school for advice and guidance on their future educational journey.”