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The pass rate in Scotland’s Higher exams has hit a record high, it has been revealed.
The results for nearly 160,000 students across the country were released today.
The pass rate for Highers increased from 75.2% in 2011 to 76.9% this year, a rise of 7% over the past decade.
The Scottish Qualifications Authority said there were 158,908 candidates, sitting exams ranging from Standard Grades and Intermediates to Highers and Advanced Highers, down from 159,744 in 2011.
Chris Keates, General Secretary of the NASUWT, welcomed the results.
"The increase in the pass rate shows the continuing dedication and commitment of teachers and the hard work of young people," she said.
"They should all be congratulated on their achievements.
"Education in Scotland has traditionally been regarded as the 'gold standard'.
"However, this 'gold standard' is in danger of being tarnished by the attacks on teachers' pay and conditions by local authorities and the Scottish Government.
"The provisions which have enabled teachers to support pupils in achieving the today's fantastic results are under attack.
Dr Janet Brown, chief executive of the SQA, said: "The increased number of qualifications achieved by candidates not only reflects their hard work and commitment, but also the value they place on qualifications, particularly in this difficult economic climate.
"I want to congratulate everyone and whether they will be returning to school or college, moving on to higher education or entering the workplace, I wish them continued success."
"These results should give the Scottish Government and local authorities pause for thought in their drive to break up the system of teachers' pay and conditions which have supported teachers in working so effectively to raise standards."
Engineers hail rise in maths uptake
A rise in the number of young people in Scotland studing maths has been welcomed by the Institution of Engineering and Technology.
"I'd like to congratulate all the young people receiving their results today, which is the culmination of many years of hard work," said Prof John Roulston OBE from the IET.
"This year's results show a welcome increase in the number of people taking exams such as mathematics, which is an essential starting point for those taking up engineering as a career option.
“Engineering is of huge importance to the economy, typically accounting for a quarter of all turnover in the UK.
"Put simply, we must continue this upward curve and ensure our future generations are equipped with the crucial technical and practical skills that they need to build a Scotland that can compete effectively and internationally.
"A flourishing green economy depends on a home-grown workforce in engineering.”