GCSE Results Improve On 2013

The number of Northern Ireland students receiving high pass grades in their GCSE exams has risen on last year, the Department of Education has announced.

78% of entries at GCSE here achieved grades A*-C, indicating an increase from 76.5% in 2013.

The top grades, A*-A, were awarded to 28.2% of entrants, a slight increase from 28% in 2013. The A* grade was awarded to 8.9% of entrants, compared to 8.7% in 2013.

The overall pass rate remained the same as last year, with 99.2% of grades awarded at A*-G.

The proportion of entries for English getting grades A*-C rose by 4.2% on last year, to 73.0%. The proportion of entries for maths getting A*-C rose by 1.6% to 66.2%.

Education Minister John O’Dowd said: "Today is a momentous occasion in the lives of thousands of local young people. It can be a time of high emotion but it should also be a time for young people to be proud of the hard work they have put in over the last two years towards their GCSEs.

"Inevitably there will be some who may feel disappointed that they did not achieve the grades they had hoped for. To those I say, do not panic; this is only one chapter in your life, seek advice and move on to the next chapter. Talk to your teachers, to your parents and families and make use of the services available that can provide useful help and guidance. There is a future pathway for every young person and these services can help identify the right one for you.

"Those who do stay on at school will experience even greater choice in their post-16 studies. From the new academic year, the Entitlement Framework policy will ensure that young people have access to at least 24 courses, both general and applied, offering clear progression routes to further and higher education, training and employment."

Employment and Learning Minister Dr Stephen Farry said: "The importance of making an informed decision following exam results is imperative to effective career planning. Taking time now to explore options will pay dividends in the future. There are many opportunities available to you and I would urge you to examine these fully. My Department’s Careers Service provides professional, impartial careers help to people of all ages, tailored to individual needs. This includes assistance with CVs, job applications and interviews and advice on job trends, including industry sectors and occupations which will be important in the future."



www.nidirect.gov.uk/careers

www.nidirect.gov.uk/skills



(IT/MH)