Young people across Scotland are preparing for exam results against a backdrop of record achievements in literacy, numeracy and university access.
The SNP Government says the latest figures mark a turning point in closing the attainment gap and giving children from all backgrounds a fair shot at success.
New data shows numeracy attainment across primary years at its highest ever level, with 80.3% of pupils in P1, P4 and P7 meeting expectations.
By S3, that figure rises to an impressive 90.3%.
Literacy has also hit record highs, with 74% of primary pupils and 88.3% of S3 pupils achieving expected standards.
Behind the numbers lies a significant investment.
Over £1 billion has been channelled into boosting attainment, with Pupil Equity Funding allowing schools to recruit up to 3,000 additional staff.
These range from teaching assistants to wellbeing workers and income maximisation officers, each providing vital support to help pupils thrive.
The impact is being felt far beyond classrooms.
More students from Scotland’s most deprived communities are entering university full-time than ever before.
Ninety-one percent of school leavers are now in positive destinations, including employment, training or further study.
Additional support for Care Experienced students, worth up to £11,400, is also ensuring that opportunities are opening up for those who have previously faced the greatest barriers.
Highlands and Islands MSP Emma Roddick welcomed the progress and praised the Government’s commitment to free tuition.
“This shows real progress in giving every child the chance to succeed, not just those from privileged backgrounds,” she said.
“Unlike Labour at Westminster, the SNP does not burden students with debt.
“We invest in their future.”
Her comments come as the Labour Government confirmed a rise in tuition fees south of the border, a move critics warn will hit students and families already facing financial strain.
Roddick said young people deserved better.
“On results day, every pupil deserves to know that they have opportunity ahead of them, not barriers,” she said.
“While Labour won’t, the SNP is working to make sure every young person has the chance to thrive.”
The figures come during one of the most challenging periods for education, following the disruption of the pandemic and rising pressures on household budgets.
But the SNP says its focus on targeted investment and free tuition remains unchanged, a pledge it argues is key to building a fairer, more prosperous Scotland for the next generation.
