SCHOOL pupils in Scotland will not sit exams for the first time in modern history this year, Education Secretary John Swinney told MPs in Holyrood today.

The decision came after the Scottish government confirmed that schools across Scotland would be closed from today.

The SNP MSP said: “In all of our history, Scotland has never cancelled the exams. Since 1888 they have been held every May or June, without fail.

“In the midst of two world wars the exams went ahead. It is a measure of the gravity of the challenge we now face that I must today announce the exams will not go ahead this year.”

Despite the cancellation Mr Swinney said qualifications would still be awarded to young people by August.

A model is expected to be put in place under which pupils will be graded on coursework already completed, teacher assessment, and previous attainment.

The government also moved quickly to reassure the public that vulnerable children would be protected.

Mr Swinney reported that local authorities were in the process of making arrangements around free school meals and said ring-fencing around education funding would be relaxed to meet needs.

Some school facilities may also stay open on a limited basis to provide care for dependants of health and social care staff.

Labour questioned whether supermarket workers would be included on “key-worker” lists, which are set by local authorities, and Mr Swinney encouraged those who continue to make critical contributions to public efforts to contact their council.