School exam performance in the Stirling area has been strong in 2026, it has been revealed, following the release of results on Tuesday. A councillor has hailed dedicated teachers and congratulated pupils who have worked hard for their results.
Improved attainment levels
Early analysis from Stirling Council highlights an increase in the percentage of pupils achieving five awards or more at National 5 level by the end of S4 compared to last year. The percentage of pupils achieving three or five Highers by the end of S5 and S6 has also increased from 2025.
Young people have also celebrated success in a variety of vocational qualifications delivered either in Stirling's schools or at college.
Official praise
Social Work and Education Convener, Cllr Bob Buchanan said: “These are a very strong set of exam results for our young people and their dedicated teachers who have supported them over the course of the school term.
“Congratulations to everybody who is celebrating after receiving their letter, email or text message today after what will have been an anxious period of waiting. You have worked ever so hard and these results will have been worth the wait.
“Positive results open a number of doors for the future, whether you are continuing with your studies next year at school and further education, or taking the first steps into the world of work. We’re excited to see what the next steps hold for you.”
School leader comment
Head Teacher at Dunblane High School, Stuart MacKay said: “We are very proud of all of our young people. Their application of effort has been central to them achieving very good examination results and we continue to strive to support them in every way to be the best version of themselves”.
Cllr Buchanan added: “It’s important to also acknowledge that some of you may be disappointed with your results and feeling anxious about not receiving the results you were hoping for.
“Please remember that exam results are only one aspect of your journey and that support and resources is available to help you figure out your next steps. In the meantime, be kind to yourself and take some time to gather your thoughts and feelings with help from your friends and family.”
National picture
The local figures were mirrored by an optimistic picture at national level, with the new body in charge of exams - Qualifications Scotland - hailing an increase in attainment levels at A-C through National 5, Higher and Advanced Higher. The number of young people taking on technical and vocational qualifications also surged to 120,000.
Donna Stewart, Scotland’s Chief Qualifications and Examinations Officer, said: “Scotland’s learners should be proud of what they have achieved today – we are certainly very proud of them.
“These results are a testament to their hard work and commitment. The rise in overall attainment at all three National Qualification levels and the increasing attainment in vocational and technical qualifications will rightly be welcomed in classrooms and staffrooms across Scotland.
“The diversity of qualifications being achieved today is further evidence of the appetite for skills-based, practical qualifications along with traditional subjects, which give learners a variety of options to develop skills and build work experience that employers are looking out for. It is encouraging to see the number of vocational and technical qualifications continuing to grow to over 120,000.
“The results for National 5, Higher and Advanced Higher courses are evidence of the stable state of the awarding system with assessments working as intended, ensuring that learners were able to demonstrate what they know and can do.
Both Skills Development Scotland (SDS) and Qualifications Scotland can be contacted for advice and support once young people receive their results. The SDS Results Helpline number is 0808 100 8000 and went live at 8am on Results Day on Tuesday.
