In pictures: Ballyclare High pupils receive results ‘to be proud of’

Zara Campbell, Tilly Taylor, Luke McDowell and Peter Gillespie.

Commenting on this year’s results, a spokesperson for the Rashee Road school said: “Despite the controversy and uncertainty around the awarding of GCSE grades this year pupils in Ballyclare High School have been awarded results to be proud of once again.

“Teacher assessed grades have not been standardised by examination boards for this cohort and instead are based on internal assessments completed up until lockdown began.

“We expected indicators to be a little higher than last year and in a year when most certainly now that will be the case for all schools, we are confident that our outcomes will allow our pupils the celebration they deserve and stand the test of time.”

Amy Campbell celebrating her seven A stars and four As with her mum.

The spokesperson added: “99 per cent of pupils walk away today with five or more A*/C grades, including English and Maths and 96 per cent have been awarded seven or more A*/C grades, including English and Maths.

“56 per cent of all grades are A*/A and the 100 per cent pass rate in both English and Maths gives everyone, regardless of next steps, straightforward options for further study and employment.

“90 per cent have secured the grades that will allow them to return to school for A level study and can be assured of a fabulously confident start to those courses.”

Dr Michelle Rainey, Principal, said: “Our pupils’ GCSE results have always compared very well indeed with the Northern Ireland grammar school indicators. This year that is more difficult to judge but our pupils’ achievements have held up against the rigour of internal teacher assessment and today, let’s set the controversy aside and celebrate with our children what they have achieved.

Christopher Graham who achieved nine A star and one A grade in his GCSE results.

“There is a relief and a buoyancy here this morning and rightly so. Well done everybody, go celebrate and look forward, not back. Each one of you is a success story in your own way and the next exciting step in life’s journey awaits you.”

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Dr Rainey congratulates Megan Cochrane and Issy McGrugan on achieving 10 A stars each.

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Connie Duncan,10 A stars with Katie Conn, eight A stars and A and B grade celebrate excellent GCSE results.

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