One of the aims of the Scottish Health Equity Research Unit is to produce reactive statistical / research briefings that summarise relevant data releases. Designed to improve the accessibility and visibility of important statistical findings, these briefings provide concise, easy-to-understand round-ups that highlight key insights from recent publications. By demystifying complex statistics, methodologies, and data limitations, the unit aims to make this information more approachable for a wider audience.
This reactive statistics briefing highlights the widening attainment gap between students from the most and least deprived areas in Scotland, as reported in the latest Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) results. It emphasises the need to tackle this issue further due to its impact on important life outcomes, including career opportunities, academic success, and long-term health.
Authors
David is a Senior Knowledge Exchange Fellow at the Fraser of Allander Institute. Previously, he worked in a range of analytical positions across the public sector, primarily as a statistician.