More school leavers in Midlothian going into further education
More than 95% of Midlothian pupils who left school in 2022/23 went on to further education, employment, training or volunteering.
Third highest recorded
At the full Council meeting on Tuesday, councillors heard the figure of 95.3% of school leavers who achieved what’s known as a ‘positive destination’ is the third highest recorded in Midlothian.
Rise in further education figures
The percentage of school leavers going into further education was up 6.29% from the previous year to the second highest level in five years.
Improvements in attainment
Councillors from all parties commended the national Senior Insight Update figures, which also confirmed improvements in attainment for 2022/23.
Pre-pandemic levels
School leavers achieving one or more awards at SCQF levels 3 (99.49%), 4 (98.06%) and 5 (86.91%) were up compared to the previous year and were higher than pre-pandemic levels.
Next steps
The report states improvements will focus on, among other groups, the middle 60% of achievers and learners studying at SCQF level 6.
Impact of Covid on learning
Councillors heard the pandemic had a significant impact on young people in Midlothian. The 2022/23 year was the first time exams and assessments had not been modified to take account of the disruption Covid had brought to learning.
Note
SCQF stands for Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework. It provides a way of comparing qualifications to help people understand them and make a better choice in their learning. SCQF levels are used for college courses, Highers and National 5s at school and apprenticeships.
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