PUPILS across Fife who are set to receive their SQA exam results next month can make use of a dedicated support helpline.

Exam results for Higher, National and Advanced grade levels are due to come out on Tuesday, August 6.

Skills Development Scotland have now launched a support helpline, designed to help guide young people, along with parents and carers, through their options after their results.

The SDS results helpline will offer impartial advice, career information and guidance and is fully staffed by expert careers advisers.

Dave McCallum, head of career information, advice and guidance operations at SDS, said: “Our message for young people and their parents and carers are their results arrive is to not panic.

“Everything might seem overwhelming right now but remember that this is just one step on your journey.

“Our experienced advisers are here to provide expert support and guidance, offering information on a wide range of options and opportunities.

“Whether you didn’t receive the results you were hoping for, or exceeded your expectations, we are here to help you navigate the next steps and make the best decisions for your future.”

The SDS results helpline has been established for 32 years now, proving to be an invaluable tool for any school pupil uncertain about what to do now their results are in.

An SDS careers adviser is linked to every secondary school in Scotland, allowing for pupils to seek an in-person session once the term starts again.

Jenny Gilruth, education secretary, commented: “I want to pay tribute to all the young people who have worked incredibly hard and are now waiting for their exam results.

“Results day can be a very emotional one for pupils, parents and carers. There are options out there for you whatever your results may be.

“The helpline provides a valuable opportunity to speak directly with someone who can offer impartial, expert advice on your options.

“Anyone with concerns, no matter how small, should take the chance to phone the careers experts if they need advice or reassurance."

The SDS results helpline will go live from 8am on Tuesday, August 6 and will be available from 8am to 8pm that day and Wednesday, August 7.

The helpline will remain open the following two days on reduced hours from 9am to 5pm.

This service has received backing and promotion from parents’ organisation Connect.

Gavin Yates, executive director for Connect, added: “Each year we encourage parents, carers and young people to use the results helpline.

“There are opportunities for everyone, whatever their results are. With the support of the results helpline team, families can navigate these to explore all options.”