Support available as appeals service opens

Thousands of Lanarkshire’s young people received their results for Nationals, Highers, Advanced Highers, and a whole series of other courses, certificates, and awards on Tuesday.

The cancellation of the exam diet has meant results this year have been based on estimates in the absence of candidate performance data from exams and coursework. These estimates were submitted to SQA by schools and colleges across Scotland by May 29.

Like any other year, this year’s results will be recognised by employers, training providers, universities, and colleges enabling young people to take the next step in their education and training.

SQA’S appeals (post-certification review) process will be available should schools and colleges want to question the grades awarded, if these are lower than the grade they estimated, and they have the required evidence.

Fiona Robertson, SQA Chief Executive and Scotland’s Chief Examining Officer, explained:“we are providing a free appeals service this year. That means schools and colleges that have questions about a candidate’s final grade can appeal the result, if it is lower than what they estimated. They need to have permission from the candidate and sufficient evidence to support the initial estimate.

“Following an appeal, final grades can be increased, they can be lowered, or they can remain the same.

“If learners have any questions about their results they should speak to their school, college or training provider first. If they need to talk to someone about their results certificate, SQA’S Candidate Advice Line is open from 8am on Tuesday, August 4. If they want to find more information about what career or study options are available to them, Skills Development Scotland is running its annual Results Helpline.

“There is also a host of information online, search for SQA Results.”

SQA’S Candidate Advice Line can be reached on 0345 279 1000, and runs from 8.30am to 5pm until Friday, August 7. More information is available online at www.sqa. org.uk/results.

Skills Development Scotland Results Helpline can be reached on 0808 100 8000.