Students have faced a number of challenges over the last few years, with covid-19 seriously impacting their education experience, and in-person exams returning this year for the first time since 2019.

The letter seeks to underline the commitment of Scotland’s employers to create good jobs for young people as they enter the world of work, while reminding them that there are many different career pathways to take, regardless of their results.

The letter was written by Sandy Begbie, chair of the Young Person’s Guarantee Implementation Group and chief executive of Scottish Financial Enterprise, with the support of industry and employer partners.

The Young Person’s Guarantee aims to provide every young person aged between 16 and 24 with the opportunity of a job, apprenticeship, further or higher education, training programme or volunteering.

662 employers have now backed the guarantee from across the Scottish economy, ranging from large companies, SMEs, local authorities, government agencies, trade bodies and charities.

Commenting on the letter, Mr Begbie said: “Results day is often a daunting moment for young people, and for this year’s cohort of school leavers, this is likely to be compounded by the difficult economic picture, which might add extra worry as they weigh up their plans for the future.

“The message we want to get across to young people is that their skills, talents and ideas are vital right now to businesses across Scotland to help them grow and prosper. As employers we are determined to harness the power of our future workforce to drive the economic recovery and create a brighter future for Scotland.

“There are many different pathways available to young people and we are clear that no matter their results, their qualifications are valued, and there are good opportunities out there for them to take advantage of to help them reach their full potential. I am delighted that so many key employers from across the Scottish economy have joined us to share this message.”

The letter can be found here.