Universities Scotland has welcomed the publication of SQA exam results across Scotland. Today, statistical data released by UCAS show that as of 9 August: 60.1% of Scottish students gained a place at their firm choice university, up from the pre-pandemic level of 57.5% in 2019. This is a new record. 29,630 students have accepted a…
Tag: Schools
Message to university applicants ahead of results day
We understand that the days ahead of results day, Tuesday 9 August, are always an anxious time for learners and we want to offer reassurance to applicants. Universities know that this year has been another difficult one for those working towards senior phase qualifications. It is the first year since 2019 that exams have returned…
Proposed Schools (Residential Outdoor Education) (Scotland) Bill
Universities Scotland have responded to Liz Smith MSP’s proposed Schools (Residential Outdoor Education) (Scotland) Bill which has just completed its consultation phase. Universities Scotland, representing Scotland’s 19 universities are supportive of this proposed Bill as we consider there to be helpful evidence of the educational and wider benefits that outdoor education offers young people across…
New figures show no let-up on widening access from universities
Universities Scotland have welcomed the publication of the Report on Widening Access 2020-21 by the sector’s funding body, the Scottish Funding Council which demonstrates the sector’s commitment to widening access. The Scottish Government’s Commission on Widening Access set the sector a target that by 2021, students from the 20% most-disadvantaged backgrounds (SIMD20) should represent at…
Universities Scotland’s submission to the Education, Children and Young People Committee on the attainment challenge
We have provided evidence to the Scottish Parliament’s Education, Children and Young People’s Committee to assist with their inquiry on the attainment challenge. Our submission highlights the role that the attainment challenge will play in ensuring fair admissions to universities; the key role that better data could play in making decisive policy interventions as well…
Universities Scotland comment on Ministerial Statement: SQA Exam Results 2020
Commenting on today’s Ministerial Statement from the Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Secretary for Education and Skills, Universities Scotland Convener Gerry McCormac said: “Universities will do everything possible to ensure that all those who can benefit from higher education have the opportunity to attend university. They will look at the circumstances of each applicant who…
Universities Scotland submission to Education and Skills Committee inquiry into Subject choice
Universities Scotland have responded to the Scottish Parliament’s Education and Skills Committee inquiry into Subject choice. Our submission focuses on the work of the Learner Journey and the impact of Subject choice on the sector’s work on widening access. You can read our submission here.
Response to consultation on the attainment and achievement of school-aged children experiencing poverty
Universities Scotland has responded to an inquiry on the impact of experiencing poverty on young people at school. The inquiry, by the Scottish Parliament’s Education and Skills Committee, will examine how poverty can affect the attainment and achievement of school-aged children. Given Scotland’s goal of widening access to university to those from all socio-economic backgrounds, we welcome the opportunity…
Universities Scotland’s response to the Scottish Government consultation on the attainment gap
Universities Scotland has responded to the Scottish Government’s consultation on the attainment gap. You can read our here response here.
Learner Journey Review: Proposals from Universities Scotland
Last year, the Scottish Government launched a review of the 15-24 Learner Journey, examining the effectiveness and efficiency of the 15-24 Learner Journey for all 15 to 24 year olds. Universities Scotland has been playing a full role in the review which is considering the 15-24 Learner Journey from the senior phase (S4-S6) leading to employment,…