NEARLY 9,000 young people in Fife woke up yesterday to their SQA exam results, with hundreds of Beath and Lochgelly High School pupils involved.

Initial analysis shows the picture is very positive with Fife is maintaining the improvement seen in recent years and on some attainment measures there has been a significant improvement over a 5 year period.

In congratulating all the young people on their achievements, Carrie Lindsay, Executive Director of Education and Children’s Services, said: "The hard work and dedication put into their studies by so many young people has to be acknowledged.

"Our young people impress me on a daily basis with their confidence, skills and such a wide range of achievements but today is a day for congratulating them on the results they have received.

"I would also like to thank the staff who supported them with such professionalism, and of course the parents who have supported the studying and revision over the last few months."

However, for those students who may not have received the results they were expecting and are worried about what the future holds, help and advice is available.

Skills Development Scotland’s (SDS) exam results helpline will be available righ through until August 15 and is open to all young people and their families seeking careers advice.

It will be open from 8am until 8pm today and from 9am until 5pm from 9 until August 15. The number to call is 0808 100 8000.