Across Shetland today, 599 secondary pupils will receive their exam results from Qualifications Scotland – the new exam body which replaced the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) in December 2025
Awards include National, Higher and Advanced Higher qualifications by pupils in the Senior Phase, Secondary 4 to 6.
For graded qualifications:
- The A-C pass rate for Shetland, at National 5 is 79.8%. The Scottish average this year is 79.2%
- The A-C pass rate for Shetland, at Higher is 76.9%. The Scottish average this year is 76.7%.
- The A-C pass rate for Shetland at Advanced Higher is 77.1%. The Scottish average this year is 77.6%.
The publication of exam results data does not include the qualifications gained through Skills for Work courses in S4 and Foundation Apprenticeships and Academy courses in S5 and S6.
This year, 102 Skills for Work awards and 144 Foundation Apprenticeships and Academy course awards have been achieved across subjects including Engineering Skills, Hospitality, Hairdressing, Energy, Maritime Skills, and Early Learning and Childcare.
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 www.myworldofwork.co.uk or through their Results helpline 0808 100 8000.
Pupils may 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 Qualifications Scotland 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.
The Qualifications Scotland website has more details of support options, and the appeals process, at www.qualifications.gov.scot/
Davie Sandison, Chair of the Council’s Education and Families Committee said:
“Today we celebrate the achievements of young people across Shetland who have worked diligently to achieve their national and vocational qualifications. I would like to congratulate all students on their success and thank the teachers and support staff whose dedication has helped them reach this milestone.
“It is particularly encouraging to see more students undertaking skills-based partnership courses alongside their national qualifications. This reflects the expanding range of learning pathways available in Shetland and our commitment to providing opportunities that meet the diverse interests and aspirations of young people.”
More details of Foundation Apprenticeships, Academy Courses & Skills for Work can be found at www.shetland.uhi.ac.uk/schools/