Higher History 2024 Communications

Date published: 18/03/2025

I would be grateful if you could provide the following information under the Freedom of Information (Scotland) Act 2002.

I would like to receive any communications received by the SQA concerning the Higher history pass rate this year, as well as any responses made by the SQA to these communications.

The information requested is contained within the attached documents. However, we have redacted some information for the following reasons.

Some of the information has been redacted as it is considered exempt under section 30(b)(i).

While our aim is to provide information whenever possible SQA has withheld some information where exemption 30(b)(i) – the free and frank exchange of views - applies. The exemption applies because disclosure would, or would be likely to, inhibit substantially the free and frank exchange of views between SQA and external bodies.  The exemption recognises the need for individuals to have a private space within which to share sensitive information and seek advice and views from others before reaching a settled public position. Disclosing the content would substantially inhibit the provision of advice and the exchange of views in the future.

This exemption is subject to the ‘public interest test’. Therefore, taking account of all the circumstances of this case, we have considered if the public interest in disclosing the information outweighs the public interest in applying the exemption. We recognise that there will be an interest in disclosing information as part of being an open, transparent and accountable public body, and to inform public debate. However, there are occasions where discussions can be undertaken without being placed into the public domain, and accordingly some of the information has been redacted due to the sensitive nature of the information.

We have found that, on balance, the public interest lies in favour of upholding the exemption. Whilst there may be an interest in discussions undertaken, it is considered that at this time there is a greater public interest in allowing a private space within which officials can share sensitive information.

Accordingly, taking account of the circumstances of this case, we consider that the public interest lies in favour of upholding the exemption.

There is a letter that has been redacted in full under section 38(1)(b) as it all relates to a candidate and is deemed to be personal information relating to that candidate and can not be released.

The names and identifying information of SQA staff below Head of Service level and individuals from external bodies has also been redacted under section 38(1)(b) as this is also deemed to be personal information.

There is also some information redacted as it is out of scope of the request.

Please accept our sincere apologies for the lateness of this response. FOI requests relating to Higher History were impacted by the review of Higher History. We acknowledge that the review has taken longer than anticipated and hoped but, in the interest of learners, it was important to ensure the review was robust and rigorous.

History Enquiries and Complex Enquiries (37 KB)

Attachment Herald New Story (0.96 MB)

Collated Emails Redacted (37 KB)

Correspondence to QD (37 KB)