The number of school leavers going into jobs has increased by almost two per cent since 2009/10, an education standards report has revealed.
Over the same period the percentage of pupils going on to higher education has also increased slightly, while the number unemployed has fallen by 3.5 per cent.
On the whole, the figures for 2012/13 also show an improvement on 2011/12, the exception being the number in a job (0.7 per cent lower).
The statistics have been welcomed by councillors Sandy Aitchison and Vicky Davidson, executive members for education and youth respectively.
In a statement they said: “The academic year 2012/13 has been a year of steady improvement across Scottish Borders Council, continuing the trend of recent years.
“It is particularly encouraging to see such a high percentage of our young people achieving a positive destination.
“The signs of recovery in the economy mean that our young people will be well positioned to take advantage of any improvement as they complete their further and higher education courses and seek employment. Those who have be en fortunate to obtain employment on leaving school will see more opportunities in the future.”
Figures show that the percentage of pupils achieving certain numbers of grades at specific levels, and in specific subjects, is generally higher in the Borders than in similar rural authorities, and also compared to the national average.
Commenting on recent changes, including the Curriculum for Excellence, Glenn Rodger, director of education, said: “2013/14 will continue the trend of significant change but I am confident that with the quality of our teachers education and support staff and the support of our parents and young people we are well equipped to rise to the challenge.”