Results Day marks next stage of career ambitions for Renfrewshire’s young people

Thousands of Renfrewshire’s young people have received their exam, coursework and vocational results today (Tuesday 5 August) from the Scottish Qualification Authority (SQA).

Young people from Gleniffer High School in Paisley are among the 4,000 young people excited to move onto the next stage of their career pathways—whether staying in school, going to college or university, or starting an apprenticeship or work.

Keeley Conway, 17, is studying graphic design at college. She said: “I’ve always been a creative person throughout my life and I’m hoping to be a graphic designer for a career. I’m looking forward to the freedom that comes with college and having my own responsibilities and putting forward my own ideas.”

Christopher Smyth, 18, initially left school to start work full time, but changed course and is now heading to college to study mechanical engineering. He explained: “I have an HSC in Business, but I decided I didn’t want to go to university. After working for a bit, I chose to go to college for mechanical engineering. After that, I want to get an apprenticeship.”

Wania Fatima, 18, is studying finance and accounting at college while also building her freelance work as a photographer. She said: “I’ve always wanted to be a businesswoman and going to college for finance will help my business. I can work on being a good photographer and study on the side.”

Olivia Milton, 17, is studying psychology at university, then plans to do a masters afterwards. She explained: “I enjoy psychology because I want to understand why people do stuff and how life choices lead us to act a certain way. I’m also looking forward to a change of scenery by going to university. I’ve lived in the same area my whole life, so this will be a good change.”

Victoria Donaldson, 15, is going to college for hair and beauty. She said: “I applied for college and got an unconditional offer. It starts off as 16 weeks of hair, beauty and makeup and the decide what I want to do in the long run. In five years’ time, I’ll probably be working in a salon and working my way up.”

Lucy Rae, 17, is studying politics at university. She said: “I’m going to university, but I don’t know exactly what I am going to do after it. I find politics really interesting and my career advisor helped me look at my options so I could decide. I’ll be studying something I find interesting and that’s the best thing.”

Councillor Emma Rodden, convener of Renfrewshire Council’s Education and Children’s Services Policy Board, added: “I want to congratulate all senior pupils for their dedication and hard work. For both academic and vocational pathways, today marks an important moment to celebrate everything our young people have achieved over the last year and their future career ambitions.

“While many will be delighted with their results, there may be some young people who are disappointed. I encourage anyone who didn’t get the outcomes they hoped for to contact their school for guidance and support. There are many different routes to achieving your goals and building a successful future.

“Whatever path our young people choose—returning to school, starting an apprenticeship or job, or moving on to college or university—I wish them every success in the next stage of their journey.”

Help and support is available from the Skills Development Scotland’s exam results helpline on 0808 100 8000.