Exam Results Don’t Define You
Building Confidence, Skills & Independence Beyond School
For many young people across Scotland, exam results day is a milestone — a day that can bring pride, relief, or, for some, a sense of uncertainty. For autistic young people and those with additional support needs (ASN), the emotions surrounding results can be even more complex.
At Edge Group Scotland, we want to emphasise something vital: exam results do not define you or your future.
The pressure of results — and what comes next
For autistic school leavers and those with other additional support needs ASN, the transition from the classroom to adult life can be overwhelming. Many are faced with decisions about further education or training, and while these traditional routes suit some, they are not right for everyone. This can lead to feelings of anxiety, frustration, and a sense of being “left behind.”
It’s important to remember that exam results are just one measure of learning — they don’t reflect your whole potential, your skills, or the unique contributions you can make to the world.
A different kind of post-school pathway
There are alternative ways to move forward after school that focus on practical, real-world skills and personal growth rather than exam results.
Our Transitions Programme is designed specifically for autistic young adults and those with ASN in East Lothian, Edinburgh, and surrounding areas who need a more tailored, hands-on approach to their journey towards independence.
It’s a supported day service that blends outdoor learning, water-based activities (including surfing, paddleboarding, and swimming), and practical skills such as cooking, independent travel training, communication and employability training, supported volunteering and real-world work experiences. The goal? To equip school leavers with the confidence, resilience, and life skills they need to progress towards independence and their own positive destination.
One young person told us:
“I don’t need a taxi anymore because I can now travel on my own. I get the bus to Edge every day!”
That sense of independence is at the heart of what we do.
Why a holistic approach matters
Not every young person thrives in a classroom or college environment. Our programme provides the space and support to learn in different ways — through movement, teamwork, and real-world experiences.
By focusing on social and communication skills, building confidence in outdoor settings, and encouraging independence, we help participants take meaningful steps forward.
As one family member shared:
“The support has been transformational for our daughter and for us, as a family. We had all become isolated and couldn’t see a happy future. Edge has provided her with hope. She is now more confident, has made friends, has been actively participating in activities, and has a reason to get up in the morning.”
As one of our earlier articles explored, this shift from the classroom to the community can be transformative. (You can read more about that journey here).
Looking to the future
If you’re a parent, carer, social worker, teacher, or professional supporting a school leaver who is autistic and/or has ASN, today is an important reminder: there are options beyond college or training courses.
With the right support, young people can continue learning, growing, and gaining skills that prepare them for the future — at their pace, in ways that suit their needs.
As one parent told us:
“There is no doubt that Edge has been extremely beneficial to my son over the last 6 months.”
If you’d like to find out more about the Transitions Programme and how we help school leavers take their next steps with confidence, head over to our Day Services page where you can find out more information and submit a referral to our services.