Writing in the Edinburgh Evening News (24 April), Education, Children and Families Convenor, Cllr James Dalgleish reflects on the start of both SQA exams and the Summer term for schools.
This week saw a return to the school routine after the Easter break for learners, teachers and school staff across the city. With the weather promising the start of Spring I know that, mirroring the shift in seasons, for many young people this time of year marks a transition from school to what comes next.
The annual SQA National 5, Higher and Advanced Higher exams started this week, running until 1 June. For many learners, particularly those taking SQA Awards and Skills for Work vocational subjects, assessments have already taken place throughout the academic year.
I have been pleased to see the shift from academic achievement as the sole means to measure attainment in recent years. We are focused on improving outcomes for all learners and this includes acknowledging that each of our young people are unique individuals with their own talents, skills, ambitions and aspirations.
For many young people, a timetable of academic subjects followed by formal exams works well but others are better suited to dynamic, hands-on learning – some find that a mix of the two suits them best.
Our award winning and innovative pathways work aims to increase the number of learners in positive destinations after school. We offer unique and tailored routes for all young people – whether university, college, an apprenticeship or the world of work is what’s next.
We work with a range of partners including Edinburgh College and local roofing and construction businesses to deliver National 5 qualifications. Alongside this, we offer courses in business skills, creative and digital media, food and drink, financial services among others – and starting in August, barbering.
It is positive that through our innovative partnership approach, the attainment of school leavers in the national benchmarks have improved across most measures in recent years. The number of vocational National Progression Awards achieved by City of Edinburgh school leavers increased from 1433 in 2023 to 2365 in 2025 – and in 2026, this is expected to rise again.
We are committed to offering the highest quality education that meets the needs of all our learners, narrowing the gap between the most and least disadvantaged young people and breaking the cycle of intergenerational disadvantage.
There is no ‘right’ route for a young person but there is the right support, guidance and opportunity to find a future path that fits.
So, as we all enjoy the sunshine and look ahead to Spring, Summer and beyond - let’s celebrate the start of a new school term and the potential it brings.
Good luck to all young people sitting exams over the next few months. I wish each of you all the best as you look ahead to life beyond school.