Embattled MP welcomes turnaround on exam results

Last week we reported that Mrs Fellows had written a strongly-worded letter to the education secretary.

This was amidst claims that youngsters from poorer backgrounds had bene effectively downgraded in a move which also opened the Scottish Qualifications Authority to fierce criticism from some of Mrs Fellow’s aggrieved constituents.

Mr Swinney recanted shortly afterwards and the candidates will be graded by the estimates that their teachers provided in the first instance.

Last week Mrs Fellows said: “I am glad the Education Secretary has listened to and acted on the concerns raised by teachers, parents, pupils and me on the way in which pupils were graded by the SQA this year.

“Pupils will now have their work and ability accurately reflected in their grades.

“Pupils should not have been graded based on their school’s previous performance.

“This was impacting disproportionately on those from disadvantaged backgrounds many of whom live in my constituency and who had contacted me to raise their issues.

“The re-grading will provide our young people with a reason for hope and a fair chance as they progress into adulthood.

“Well done to all our young people who have studied hard.”