Most pass rates above average as pupils receive exam results

Additionally, there has been a record breaking number of S4, 5 and 6 students completing partnership courses which are delivered through UHI Shetland, Shetland Arts, the sport and leisure service and local crofting partnerships.

A total of 134 students completed their four year Skills for Work courses and 74 students across fifth and sixth year passed their Academy or Foundation Apprenticeship courses, including engineering skills, hospitality, hairdressing, energy, maritime skills and early learning and childcare.

Attainment through partnership courses is not reflected in school level attainment figures.

Pass rate information for non-graded qualifications (National 2, 3 and 4) has not yet been made available.

Schools in Shetland will be open today for pupils to discuss their exam results with staff.

Advice for pupils is also available on the Skills Development Scotland website or through their results helpline 0808 100 8000.

Pupils may also appeal if they are concerned about a National 5, Higher or Advanced Higher grade and feel there may have been a mistake in the marking.

Pupils can appeal directly to the SQA appeals service from today or can ask their school to do this for them.

Appeals can be prioritised if the pupil has a conditional place at university or college or in training or employment that depends on their grade.

Chair of Shetland Islands Council’s education and families committee Davie Sandison said: “Today is about celebrating the achievements of young people throughout Shetland who have worked hard to gain their national and vocational qualifications.

“I would like to congratulate them all and thank their teachers and support staff who have helped them throughout the past year.

“The growth in students completing vocational partnership courses, in addition to their national qualifications is worth noting and represents the diversification of student learning opportunities in Shetland.”