Marriann Raymond, Co-ordinator of Fife Council’s Young Mothers Initiative is extremely proud of the girls’ achievement. She said:’’Yvonne and Sarah have shown outstanding determination. They are great mums and are building a very positive future for themselves and their children”.

Yvonne Laird from St.Andrews added: “I was introduced to Nicol Stephens MSP at an event in November last year and told him I was going to go to University. I really meant it. I have worked hard and now it is a reality.”

Sarah and Yvonne are joining another successful young mum from Fife. Patsy Wright (21 years) formerly of St Andrews High School, Kirkcaldy is now going into her third year of studies in Social Sciences.

Chair of Fife Council’s Children’s Services Committee, Councillor Helen Law concluded:“I would like to congratulate these young women on their achievements. Fife Council is committed to supporting young people to reach their full potential. The Young Mothers Initiative concentrates on encouraging and supporting young mothers through our Personal and Social Education programmes, helping them to continue their studies at school and to plan a future for themselves and their children.

’Although this can be a difficult time, with help and support, many of the young women are still able to pursue the same ambitions and career opportunities as other pupils. In Fife our schools working with The Young Mothers Initiative, do everything they can to provide continuous and equal access to educational opportunities.

“While we will continue to help young women through what can be a very difficult time we are also committed to reducing the number of unplanned teenage pregnancies.

“The success of this initiative is due in no small part to the dedication of the Co-ordinator Marriann Raymond.”

Yvonne a former pupil of Madras College, St Andrews and Sarah from Beath High School, Cowdenbeath had their babies when they were fourth year pupils.

Supported by Fife Council’s Young Mothers Initiative, both girls were able to continue in their schools and complete exams in fifth and sixth year. This summer they joined Dundee University’s Summer Access, a full-time course to prepare students for degree level courses.