Record breaking success across South Lanarkshire

Published: Tuesday 4 August 2026

This image shows pupils from St John Ogilvie High School in the library with head teacher Lorna Lawson

The results are in – and pupils across South Lanarkshire have set records in a number of areas during this year’s exams.

More pupils than ever before sat Nat 5s and Highers this year – 62,478 and 22,904 presentations respectively.

More than half (51.79%) of S4 learners achieved five or more National 5 qualifications, an increase of more than 3% compared to last year.

And more than 60% of S5 learners achieved one or more Higher qualifications, almost 3% more than 2025. More than one in five S5 learners also achieved five or more Highers – again, up almost 3% from last year.

Lyndsay McRoberts, Executive Director of Education Resources said "I would like to congratulate all our young people receiving their results today. These achievements reflect the hard work, determination and ambition shown by learners across South Lanarkshire, supported every day by their families, teachers and school staff.

“This year's results demonstrate many positive outcomes. We have seen strong improvement in Higher attainment, with more young people achieving one or more Highers, three or more Highers and five or more Highers.

“More than half of our S4 learners achieved five or more National 5 qualifications, while record numbers of young people were presented for National 5 and Higher qualifications across our schools.

“These results reflect the commitment of our learners and the dedication of the staff who support them. We remain focused on ensuring every young person is empowered to achieve their potential and to progress confidently to the next stage of their education, training or employment.

“For many learners, today will be a moment of celebration. For others, the results may not be what they hoped for. It is important to remember that there are many different pathways to success and a wide range of opportunities remain available.

“I would encourage any learner who has questions about their results or their next steps to speak to their school and make use of the advice and support available through Qualifications Scotland and Skills Development Scotland.

“Whatever their results, we are proud of our young people and wish them every success for the future."

Learners seeking advice or support should contact their school in the first instance.

Additional information and guidance is available from:

  • Qualifications Scotland Learner Support Hub: 0345 279 1000
  • Skills Development Scotland Results Helpline: 0808 100 8000