AS Borders pupils prepare to receive exam results next week, the SQA (Scottish Qualifications Authority) has outlined support available to learners.

Young people who sat their Nationals, Highers, Advanced Highers, National Progression Awards, Skills for Work Awards, National Certificates, and Awards in the last academic year are set to receive their hard earned results on Tuesday, August 8.

In order to support youngsters with any questions about their results certificates, the SQA, will open its helpline from 8am to 6pm on August 8, and from 8.30am to 5pm from Wednesday, August 9 until Friday, August 11.

As well as support offered by SQA, Skills Development Scotland will put learners in touch with dedicated careers advisors about next steps through its helpline which opens 8am to 8pm on August 8 and August 9, then from 9am to 5pm on Thursday, August 10 and Friday, August 11.

Students should receive their results certificates in the post, and those who have signed up for and activated their MySQA account will be able to access their results by text and/or email on Tuesday morning.

Robin McKenzie, liaison manager for the Scottish Borders at SQA, said: “I want to thank candidates across the Borders for their hard work and dedication in preparing for and sitting their exams and assessments.

"Learners can have confidence in their grades and be proud of what they have accomplished.

“I also want to thank all the teaching and support staff who have gone to exceptional lengths to support learners and help them achieve their results.

"It is thanks to them that candidates are able to reach their full potential.

“I encourage anyone who has any queries or needs advice come Results Day, to call the helplines where dedicated members of staff will be happy to help and guide you.

"Remember, whether your achievements are what you expect, or not, there are many different routes available to shape your future success.”

In recognition of the continued effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on teaching and learning, the SQA and its partners designed support for students, including modifications to assessments, exam exceptional circumstances service, sensitive grading, and a direct appeals service.

An SQA spokesperson added: "Learners, and their families and carers, can be confident that the qualifications they receive are credible and fair, and that they reflect the knowledge, understanding and skills they have acquired and demonstrated through their hard work in challenging circumstances. Colleges, universities and employers, can also be confident that standards and integrity have been maintained in 2023.

"If learners have a concern about a grade for a National 5, Higher or Advanced Higher course, they can appeal for free.

"They can appeal either via their school or college or by using SQA’s learner direct service.

"While the final decision is the candidate’s, SQA would encourage anyone considering submitting an appeal to discuss their decision with their teacher, lecturer or other member of staff first."

Priority appeals are available to learners with conditional offers from colleges and universities, or training and employment offers.

Priority appeals should be sent to the SQA by Tuesday, August 15.

Students who want or need support after receiving their results can call the SQA helpline from 8am on Tuesday, August 8 on 0345 279 1000.

And to access help through the Skills Development Scotland helpline on 0808 100 8000.

More information is available online at: www.sqa.org.uk/results.