The Scottish Borders has achieved its highest level of performance in the Annual Participation Measure (APM), with 95.3% of 16 to 19 year olds in the region now in education, employment, or training.
This marks a 1.1% increase from last year and places the Borders above the national average of 93.3%. It also sees the region climb the rankings of all Scottish local authorities from 10th place in 2024 to 6th place in 2025.
The Annual Participation Measure
The Annual Participation Measure is the official Scottish Government measure of how well young people are engaging in learning, work, or training after school. It tracks the participation status of all 16 to 19 year olds in Scotland and is a key indicator of how effectively local areas are supporting positive futures for young people.
2025 Key Results for the Borders:
- 95.3% participating (up 1.1% from 2024)
- Best result since the APM began in 2016
- 6th highest performing local authority in Scotland
- Above the national APM of 93.3%
A particular highlight this year is the strong participation of care experienced young people in the Borders:
- 92.4% participating (14 young people)
- 9.1% above the national average (Scotland: 83.3%)
- 100% follow-up rate compared to 72.4% nationally, showing the strength of local partnership working to ensure every young person is supported.
This success reflects the hard work and commitment of many partners across the region, including Developing the Young Workforce Borders, Skills Development Scotland, Scottish Borders Council and The Local Employability Partnership.
Councillor Julie Pirone, Executive Member for Education, Youth Development and Lifelong Learning:
“Our young people have excelled themselves again, as shown by these figures, with the support of our teachers and partners. They are a credit to our region and their communities.
“I am particularly pleased for our care experienced young people, where the support they have received has allowed them to find meaningful destinations after leaving school.
“It is a clear sign that the Scottish Borders is a great place for young people to learn, work and succeed.”