Schools across North Lanarkshire are showing positive signs of progress, with new figures highlighting improvements in attainment, reduced exclusions and continued success in inspections.
The latest performance report, using 2024–25 data and national statistics published in December 2025, shows that children and young people in North Lanarkshire are performing in line with, and in some areas above, national averages.
“It’s part of a co-ordinated effort over many years by this authority to raise attainment and skills, enhance opportunities and choices, and support all young people to realise their full potential,” explains Councillor Michael McBride, Convener of Education, Children and Families.
In primary schools, combined P1, P4 and P7 results in literacy and numeracy remain strong overall, with numeracy continuing to be a particular strength.
Children in P1 have consistently achieved above national averages in both literacy and numeracy over the past five years.
While P4 results dipped slightly this year, long-term trends remain positive, and P7 literacy continues to outperform national levels.
At secondary stage, S3 attainment has reached its highest levels on record. Third level literacy is now above the national average, while fourth level literacy has increased sharply, significantly closing the gap with national performance. Fourth level numeracy has also risen strongly and is now close to the national figure.
The report also shows continued progress in closing the poverty-related attainment gap. Across primary and secondary stages, gaps in literacy and numeracy remain below national levels and are now at their lowest points on record in several areas.
North Lanarkshire Council has also exceeded the national teacher workforce target, with pupil–teacher ratios remaining stable.
Inspection outcomes remain a key strength, with most inspections graded “good” or better. Early years settings, in particular, have seen a clear shift towards consistently "good" ratings.
Councillor Michael McBride welcomed the findings, adding: “This report shows the real impact of the hard work taking place every day in our schools and early years settings. “We are seeing our strongest ever S3 results, narrowing attainment gaps and continued positive inspection outcomes.
“We are determined to build on this success, with a particular focus on targeted support in P4 numeracy and writing, further work to tackle persistent absence, and continued action to reduce inequality.
“Overall, this a very positive picture of progress for our children and young people.”