High level of Island school leavers in training and study

Figures state that 52% of school leavers in the Western Isles in 2014/15 went on to higher or further education, while 40% found work.

The combined number of young people going on to positive destinations in the Western Isles is close to the highest it has ever been – and an increase from the 92% in 2010/11.

Nationally, the number of school leavers in positive destinations across Scotland is reaching a record high after year on year improvement.

Alasdair Allan commented: “It’s fantastic news that 97% of young people in the islands are going on to a positive destination after leaving school – with most continuing in education or training.

“With record numbers of young people across Scotland in positive destinations, the Western Isles have set the marker for the rest of the country by having the highest proportion of our young people leaving school for positive destinations.

“While these figures are hugely encouraging, there is more to do.

“The SNP has put improving attainment at schools at the heart of our plans for government and closing the attainment gap between young people from our most and least deprived areas as our priority over the next five years.”