Watson's pupils celebrate exam success and Scotland's top marks

We are delighted to share the impressive achievements of our pupils in the 2026 Qualifications Scotland exams, where 22 Watson’s pupils have achieved the highest marks in the country across 18 exams. 

Standout successes from our 2026 results, include: 

National 5 

• Watson’s pupils achieved the highest marks in Scotland in 8 subjects (English, Maths, Physics, Biology, French, German, Philosophy, and Spanish) 
• 109 pupils achieved straight As and 75.8% of grades achieved were As 
• 100% pass rate (A-C) in 11 subjects 

Higher (S5) 

• Watson’s pupils achieved the highest marks in Scotland in 5 subjects (Economics, Environmental Science, French, Italian and Politics) 
• 98 pupils achieved straight As in 5 or more subjects and 70% of grades achieved were As. 
• 100% pass rate (A-C) in 17 subjects 

Advanced Higher 

• Watson’s pupils achieved the highest marks in Scotland in 5 subjects (Maths, Chemistry, Biology, Art & Design (Design) and Art & Design (Expressive) 
• 91.7% of grades achieved were A-C 
• A grade achievement was 51.5% 

George Watson’s College Head of Senior School, Louise Clarke said of the results: 

“This is another year of outstanding exam results with the highest marks in the country achieved in 18 exams and 100% pass rates across a staggering 44 qualifications including at Higher and Advanced Higher where we are also celebrating year on year improvement.  

I am incredibly proud of our pupils and all that they have achieved. These results are a wonderful reflection of their hard work, curiosity and determination, and of the encouragement and support they have received from their families and from our dedicated staff. I would like to congratulate every pupil and thank everyone who has played a part in their journey” 

George Watson’s College Principal, Lisa Kerr said: 

“With one of the most extensive curricula in the country, Watson’s gives pupils the freedom to explore an exceptional range of subjects and to follow their individual interests, talents and ambitions. We take an open and unrestricted approach to exam presentation, whereby every pupil is entered for the exams they have chosen to take, and this makes these outstanding results all the more remarkable. 

This is a very proud day for many hundreds of Watson’s pupils and their families, as well as for those of us privileged to teach and support them. Today, we celebrate the hard-earned C grades just as much as the 22 pupils who achieved top marks in the country, because we believe in realising the potential of every child and it is one of the great privileges of being Principal to watch these young people grow in confidence, discover their strengths and begin to shape their futures.”