Pupils in Perth and Kinross record improvements in literacy and numeracy

Perth and Kinross Council's Learning and Families Committee will discuss the impact of the Raising Attainment Strategy 2024-27 when it meets on Wednesday, 4 February.

According to the report, Perth and Kinross pupils achieved higher Curriculum for Excellence levels compared to the previous year, and secondary pupils in S3 recorded gains at both Level 3 and Level 4.

National 5 pass rates remain above the Scottish average, and Higher and Advanced Higher results are close to national benchmarks

The report also explores efforts to reduce the poverty-related attainment gap. The attainment gap has reduced by eight per cent for children who have met all their expected developmental milestones before starting school.

While the attainment gap in literacy has widened slightly and numeracy shows only modest improvement, the overall trend is upward for all learners.

Attendance levels have improved in both primary and secondary schools, although they have not yet returned to pre-pandemic levels.

Young people leaving school are increasingly well-prepared for life beyond the classroom. The proportion of 16 to 19-year-olds in education, training or employment has risen, supported by strong partnerships with colleges, universities, employers and the Developing the Young Workforce Board.

Convener of the Learning and Families Committee Councillor John Rebbeck said: "There has been real progress in attainment and positive destinations for our young people. These results show what can be achieved through collaboration and commitment.

"At the same time, we recognise that closing the attainment gap remains a challenge, and we will continue to work tirelessly to ensure every child has the opportunity to succeed.

"We want all our children and young people to be given the platform to success and the Raising Attainment Strategy is vital to achieving this - not just in terms of celebrating where we are succeeding but identifying areas where greater focus may be beneficial.

"As a Council we are committed to supporting health and wellbeing alongside academic achievement, recognising that these elements are essential for long-term success."