A test the SNP have to pass

RESULTS day is the most nerve-racking experience most pupils will endure at school.

And for thousands of teenagers, yesterday morning brought a well-earned sigh of relief.

Once again, our kids have done themselves proud across a range of subjects.

Of course, some didn’t get what they hoped for and plans might need revisiting. But exams aren’t the end of the road, they’re just the beginning.

Social media was jammed with successful adults yesterday offering reassurance to those who might be worried about the future.

From musicians to company directors, some excelled at school and others bombed.

Either way, it’s clear this country is turning out pupils who have the skills to either cash in on good results or turn things around.

The Scottish Government are delighted with the performance. They have been under huge pressure on education since Nicola Sturgeon made it her top priority.

But there is yet more evidence in the figures that the SNP administration still have work to do.

The Higher pass rate fell again and is now down from 79.2 per cent to 77 per cent since 2015. This year’s dip was small but there is no room for complacency.

Opposition parties say budget cuts and centralising polices are making things worse.

So while Education Secretary John Swinney gives himself an A, his report card from the country must surely read: “Room for improvement.”