New education dataset opens up research into Scottish qualifications

Covering activity from 2008 to 2023, the dataset captures information on approximately 35 million qualification records. The information it contains goes beyond Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) awards to include those from other providers such as colleges, Young Enterprise Scotland, Sports Leaders UK and the Duke of Edinburgh Awards. As a result, it can provide a more complete picture of pupil attainment. 

Dr Silvia Behrens of the University of Glasgow said, “This dataset fills a crucial gap in information about qualifications in Scotland. When linked with other administrative data in the National Safe Haven, it will allow researchers to explore the full range of learning pathways that sit alongside, build on or extend beyond school qualifications. This enables a more comprehensive understanding of qualifications from a growing number of providers.”

The individual level data in this dataset can be linked to other dataset in Scotland’s National Safe Haven using the Scottish Candidate Number (SCN), making it possible to use alongside datasets such as the Pupil Census, Attendance and Absences, and Exclusions. 

Improving outcomes for children and young people is a core priority in Scotland, reflected in Scottish Government policies such as Getting It Right For Every Child, The Promise and the Scottish Attainment Challenge. When linked this dataset can be used to produce research that informs evidence-based interventions to tackle child poverty, improve educational attainment and enhance wellbeing. 

Additional information can be found on our metadata catalogue.

At Research Data Scotland, we're here to help you access secure data in Scotland for research. Find out more on our data access overview page.