All the hard work has paid off as students across Scotland will receive their exam results today.
Teenagers will open their grades for National, Higher and Advanced Higher exams this morning to find out if they have landed a place at college, university or the job of their dreams.
But for those disappointed when they open their envelopes, several organisations are gearing up to help ease the pressure and explain future options.
Skills Development Scotland (SDS) will have expert careers advisers on hand from 8am, and urged pupils not to panic if it at first glance, it does not seem like their hard work has paid off.
Director of career information James Russell said: “If your results aren’t what you expected don’t panic, you have lots of options.
“Our experienced advisers are here to help you and your parents and carers with information on all the options and opportunities available to you.”
Education Secretary John Swinney congratulated pupils on the work they have put in ahead of results day.
He said: “This is an extremely significant time but it is important to remember that this is the start of a journey, not the end.
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“If your results are what you hoped for that is great news but if you miss out on the grades you were looking for, or do even better than expected, there is a huge variety of options available to you that the SDS careers advisers are on hand to talk through.”
NSPCC Scotland counsellors are also poised to help any young people worried about their results via the Childline service.
The Samaritans are also on stand-by.
James Jopling, executive director of Samaritans Scotland, said: “It’s important we all keep perspective and ensure we’re putting young people’s well-being first.
“Whether you get the results you’d hoped for or not, it’s OK to find this time tough.
“Working out your next steps, and preparing to move onto university, college, or employment can feel stressful. That’s why we’re encouraging young people and those who support them to open up if they’re struggling.”
The SDS helpline will be available from 8am to 8pm on Tuesday and Wednesday, and from 9am to 5pm weekdays from Thursday until Wednesday August 14. The number to call is 0808 100 8000.
Childline’s free confidential helpline number is 0800 11 11 and Samaritans Scotland are available on 116 123 or jo@samaritans.org
