Highlands and Islands MSP Jamie Halcro Johnston has hit out at the Scottish Government following news that over 120,000 Scottish pupils have had their grades adjusted downwards, with the vast majority by at least one grade.
Data from yesterday’s release of SQA grades also showed that pupils from schools in the most deprived communities were most likely to have their grades downgraded, sparking anger from politicians, pupils, parents and teachers.
Shadow Education Minister Mr Halcro Johnston said: “I feel desperately sorry for all those local pupils and their families who rightly feel very let down by this process.
“Pupils from across the Highlands and Islands are trying to plan their futures, but all we get from SNP ministers is hand wringing and attempts to deflect the blame onto teachers or the SQA.
“It is almost impossible to have any confidence in this whole process when even Nicola Sturgeon does little more than point students – many of whom are understandably anxious or upset – towards an appeals system which is likely to be completely overstretched by the volume of appeals.
“This latest SNP education fiasco will have a real impact on pupils - only adding to the uncertainty many already face - and will increase the workload for teachers who are already working so hard to reopen schools and deal with the educational impact of COVID-19.
“Any pupils, parents or teachers who have concerns with the appeals process – or who experience delays - can contact me via email at [email protected] or on 0131 348 6140 for assistance”.
