CLACKMANNANSHIRE COUNCIL has welcomed today's SQA results in the Wee County.

Local results indicate that there has been an increase in the attainment at National 5 for S4 pupils compared to last year.

The S5 results for pupils achieving one or more Highers is largely similar to 2015, as are the S5 results for those achieving three or more Highers. However, figures also indicate that there has been a decrease in the number of youngsters achieving five or more Highers.

More than half of S6 students achieved one or more Highers, an increase compared to last year, and more than a third achieved three or more. Of the original cohort, 14 per cent achieved Advanced Highers, in line with last year's results.

Education spokesperson councillor George Matchett said: “My congratulations to all the young people in Clackmannanshire who have worked so hard on their exams, and also my thanks to the school staff and parents and carers for their support.

“We will be looking carefully at these results, and discussing with education staff how we keep working to improve the opportunities and outcomes for all our young people.”

The Curriculum for Excellence was introduced in 2004 and those leaving school this summer are the first group to have undertaken a broad general education under the new system.

Skills Development Scotland is offering advice, information and support on its helpline for young people and their parents.

Expert careers advisers have access to information on UCAS course vacancies across the UK, conformation and clearing as well as advice on modern and foundation apprenticeships, employment and volunteering.

The 0808 100 8000 helpline is open from 8am to 8pm today and tomorrow and from 9am to 5pm until next Wednesday.

Post-results information is also available on myworldofwork.co.uk, more info on apprenticeships is available through apprenticeships.scot.

The SQA Candidate Advice Line also provides information for candidates on the content and layout of their certificate. Details are on the candidates' results paperwork.