Usually, our pupils would choose five SQA Highers to study in S5 (year 12). Highers are one-year courses offered by SQA and pupils sit external examinations in the summer term of the school year. Some pupils may look for additional challenge (we love ambition at Lomond School!) and, after discussion, might add an additional Higher, qualification or accreditation as part of their commitment to life-long learning.

SQA Highers build on National 5 qualifications – usually pupils would choose their five Highers from the eight they studied the previous year however there are new subjects on offer too.

For their final year at Lomond School, S6 (year 13), pupils might choose to develop their detailed subject knowledge and skills by taking a subject to Advanced Higher level, or perhaps study new SQA Highers – or even a combination of both. Advanced Higher can often touch on first year University level content, and pupils will complete coursework including dissertations, assignments and investigations.

Our pupils are very well supported and mentored to complete UCAS applications, to gain employability experiences in terms of apprenticeships and the world of work. We provide 1-1 support with a dedicated UCAS tutor for each pupil to help them through the process and there are regular talks from visiting speakers throughout the two years. Our bespoke Life After Lomond experience in the final weeks of term provides a real bridge between school and beyond, and our S6 trip abroad provides a real valedictory send off for our departing pupils.