21/08/2026
Givan Hails Northern Ireland Pupils For Strong GCSE Results
Education Minister Paul Givan has congratulated students across Northern Ireland after this year's GCSE outcomes were released. In total, over 32,000 young people received results, with 83.6% achieving grade C/4 and above (compared with 83.5% in 2025) and 31.7% attaining grade A/7 and higher (31.6% in 2025).
Marking the occasion at Dromore High School, Mr Givan reflected on the efforts of learners and staff. He said: "Once again, our young people have shown us just how capable they are. Their hard work, dedication and resilience has led to an impressive set of GCSE results for Northern Ireland.
"To every young person receiving results today, congratulations and well done. You should be very proud of yourself. I also thank the many teachers and school leaders who have encouraged and supported our young people every step of the way."
He encouraged anyone uncertain about their next move to seek advice and take time to consider their options. The Minister concluded: "For anyone who is feeling unsure after today's results, remember that this is only one step on your journey. There are many options for you to explore. Take your time and seek support from your teachers and families and you will find the right pathway.
"I wish all our GCSE students the very best for the future, whatever path they choose."
Northern Ireland operates an open qualifications market, allowing schools and colleges to offer GCSEs from awarding organisations beyond CCEA, such as AQA, OCR, Pearson and Eduqas, provided they meet Department of Education requirements. The majority of GCSEs taken here are CCEA qualifications.
CCEA has a dedicated results helpline for GCSE candidates. On results day, Thursday 20 August, it opens at 9.00am. From Friday 21 August to Wednesday 26 August, it runs Monday to Friday, 9.00am to 5.00pm. Queries can be directed to 028 9026 1260, helpline@ccea.org.uk, or via ccea.org.uk/students-parents/exams-results-support
Marking the occasion at Dromore High School, Mr Givan reflected on the efforts of learners and staff. He said: "Once again, our young people have shown us just how capable they are. Their hard work, dedication and resilience has led to an impressive set of GCSE results for Northern Ireland.
"To every young person receiving results today, congratulations and well done. You should be very proud of yourself. I also thank the many teachers and school leaders who have encouraged and supported our young people every step of the way."
"I wish all our GCSE students the very best for the future, whatever path they choose."
Northern Ireland operates an open qualifications market, allowing schools and colleges to offer GCSEs from awarding organisations beyond CCEA, such as AQA, OCR, Pearson and Eduqas, provided they meet Department of Education requirements. The majority of GCSEs taken here are CCEA qualifications.
CCEA has a dedicated results helpline for GCSE candidates. On results day, Thursday 20 August, it opens at 9.00am. From Friday 21 August to Wednesday 26 August, it runs Monday to Friday, 9.00am to 5.00pm. Queries can be directed to 028 9026 1260, helpline@ccea.org.uk, or via ccea.org.uk/students-parents/exams-results-support
Latest Northern Ireland News
21 August 2026
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Police in Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon mounted a co-ordinated Day of Action on Wednesday 19 August targeting cold callers and rogue traders, running 15 checkpoints, seizing a suspected rogue trading lorry and reporting a man to the Public Prosecution Service, while urging residents to stay vigilant.
21 August 2026
Givan Hails Northern Ireland Pupils For Strong GCSE Results
Education Minister Paul Givan has congratulated students across Northern Ireland after this year's GCSE outcomes were released. In total, over 32,000 young people received results, with 83.6% achieving grade C/4 and above (compared with 83.5% in 2025) and 31.7% attaining grade A/7 and higher (31.6% in 2025).
Givan Hails Northern Ireland Pupils For Strong GCSE Results
Education Minister Paul Givan has congratulated students across Northern Ireland after this year's GCSE outcomes were released. In total, over 32,000 young people received results, with 83.6% achieving grade C/4 and above (compared with 83.5% in 2025) and 31.7% attaining grade A/7 and higher (31.6% in 2025).
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:Variable amounts of cloud with some bright or sunny spells. A few showers will develop, some heavy in the afternoon over southern and western counties. Maximum temperature 18 °C.Tonight:Showers soon dying out, otherwise a dry evening with sunny spells. Skies becoming mostly clear overnight in the east but cloudier with the odd shower in the west. Minimum temperature 7 °C.