School pupils across South Ayrshire are celebrating after achieving record exam results in 2010 - some of the best in recent years.
Results issued by the Scottish Qualifications Authority last week show that almost a third of our S5 pupils (29%) achieved three or more Highers, with almost half (46%) achieving at least one Higher qualification.
Our fourth year pupils did extremely well too, with 94% gaining at least five Standard Grade or similar qualifications and 82% attaining five or more Intermediate 1 qualifications or General level Standard Grades.
Over 40% of our fourth year pupils achieved five or more Credit level Standard Grade or similar awards.
These results mark the highest level of pupil performance in these areas for over five years.
In other areas such as Advanced Highers, results were consistent with previous years, with 17% of our S6 pupils achieving one or more qualification.
Councillor Hywel Davies, Portfolio Holder for Lifelong Learning, said: "These are impressive results that reflect the dedication, hard work and commitment of not just the pupils themselves, but the teachers, school staff, parents and carers who supported them every step of the way.
"This demonstrates that the focus on effective learning and teaching, which has been at the heart of our implementation of Curriculum for Excellence, is paying off.
"Preparing our young people for the lives they will lead in the future lies at the heart of our approach to education and the 2010 exam results show that our pupils are achieving more and more, allowing them more choices and chances as they proceed towards further learning and work.
"And let's not forget that many pupils will also have achieved awards and qualifications not covered by the Scottish Qualifications Authority – these are well deserved accolades and can also make a real difference in a young person's future.
"This is a very positive outcome for South Ayrshire and my congratulations go to everyone involved in achieving these record results. Our challenge now is to maintain these very high standards in the years ahead."