Gillian Hamilton, Laura Mason, Councillors Clare Steel and John Millar.
August 13, 2025
More than 2,200 young people across West Dunbartonshire have been celebrating over the holidays after receiving their long-awaited SQA exam results.
From National 4 and 5 to Highers and Advanced Highers, students across all seven secondary schools in the area have worked hard to achieve qualifications, a media release from the council has announced.
It states: “For many the results will signal the completion of their school education, as they progress onto positive next steps, including university and college courses, apprenticeships, and full-time employment.”
But is says nothing about the departure of the current chief education officer, Laura Mason.
That release adds that controversial Labour councillor Clare Steel, Convener of Educational Services, met with pupils to mark the occasion.
Cllr Steel said: “Our young people have shown incredible determination and resilience in getting to this point. The exam period can be a hugely stressful time, and each and every pupil should be proud of what they’ve achieved.
“Speaking with pupils, it was inspiring to hear the range of paths they’re taking—from further education to starting apprenticeships.”
No such good wishes were included for Laura Mason, in another council release which reveals the appointment of her successor, but nothing about her.
Education Vice Convener Councillor John Millar also praised the students, saying: “Huge congratulations to all our pupils—your results are a credit to you and testament to your dedication and hard work. Whatever your results say, know that there are many ways to reach your goals. For anyone who may not have received the outcome they hoped for, there is support available and guidance on where to go next.”
But he too had no kind words to say about the departing Laura Mason.
This year, SQA has supplied West Dunbartonshire with results for 9912 qualifications. Of those, 95% achieved at least one national qualification. At Higher level, 75% of pupils received at least one pass, while 77% of those sitting Advanced Highers achieved a pass. 80% gained at least one National 5 pass and 100% achieved at least one pass at National 4 level.
Notably, in a number of specialist subjects—such as Advanced Higher Art & Design, Graphic Communication, Physical Education and Spanish; Higher Health and Social Care; and National 5 courses including Accounting, Dance, Early Learning & Childcare, Energy, Health Sector, Italian, Media, Laboratory Science, Sport & Recreation and Travel and Tourism —100% of candidates achieved a passing grade.
In the earlier release, Laura Mason herself commended both pupils and staff: “Our pupils should feel a real sense of pride in what they’ve achieved. These results reflect not just the hard work of young people, but also the dedication of our school staff and the support from families at home.
“We remain committed to helping every young person in West Dunbartonshire reach their full potential. Many of our pupils take part in wider learning opportunities beyond today’s exam results, and we look forward to reflecting on their full achievements when the national Insight data is released in September.”
However, it appears on the surface at least that Laura Mason will play no part in this.
The release about her replacement states: “West Dunbartonshire Council is delighted to announce the appointment of Gillian Hamilton as the new Chief Education Officer for the area.
“Gillian comes to West Dunbartonshire from her current role as Interim Chief Executive and Accountable Officer of Education Scotland, bringing a wealth of experience gained through a 35-year career in Scottish education.
“As well as holding previous posts as a primary school teacher, senior teacher, depute headteacher and headteacher in schools in Glasgow, North and East Ayrshire, Gillian has also been Head of Educational Services at the General Teaching Council for Scotland (GTCS) and Chief Executive of the Scottish College for Educational Leadership (SCEL).
“For the past two years, Gillian has been working to raise attainment for all learners while at the helm of Education Scotland.
Gillian, who will take up her new post in autumn this year, said: “I am so excited to be taking on the role of Chief Education Officer and I’m really looking forward to building on the excellent work already taking place across West Dunbartonshire’s schools and early learning settings.
“My first task in the role will be to learn more about the service’s many strengths, as well as areas which will benefit from further support and focus going forward.
“I have worked in education my whole adult life, and my priority has always been supporting children, families and educators to thrive and be the very best they can be.
“That is the ethos that will underpin my leadership in education in West Dunbartonshire and I can’t wait to get started.”
Councillor Clare Steel welcomed the new appointment. She said: ” “Her vast experience of the educational sector, alongside her clear commitment to supporting pupils to achieve their best, makes her an asset to the Council and our communities.
“I very much look forward to working alongside her to continue improving outcomes for our young people.”