Support will be on offer to school pupils next week as their exam results arrive after another difficult year.

Youngsters from the area’s secondary schools will receive the results for their Nationals, Highers and Advanced Highers on Tuesday, August 9.

The ongoing coronavirus pandemic has meant some restrictions to ‘normal’ school life over the past 12 months but the message to pupils from Skills Development Scotland (SDS) is simple – whatever your results, don’t panic.

A helpline will be operated by SDS from 8am on Tuesday, staffed by more than 50 expert careers advisers, and will be live for more than a week to assist anyone who needs some guidance on their options.

The national skills agency can provide advice about courses at colleges and universities across the UK, as well as apprenticeships, jobs and voluntary work.

Sharon McIntyre, head of career information, advice and guidance operations at SDS, said: “We know that receiving results has been a very different experience for young people and their families over the last couple of years and, although a sense of normality prevails, there is still a lot of anxiety and uncertainty at this time for pupils, parents and carers.

“It’s important to reassure people that, whatever their results are, our advisers are there to provide support and expert advice on their many options.”

Education Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville added: “The SDS Results Helpline offers an excellent source of advice, information and guidance and I would encourage young people and their parents and carers to use this valuable resource.”

The helpline is on 0808 100 8000 until August 17.