Top schools commended

Each of them had been evaluated as ‘Very Good’ or ‘Outstanding’ following inspection in the last 12 months.

Local attenders included St John Bosco PS, Portglenone; St Colmcille’s PS, Ballymena; Ballymena Academy; and Carnaghts PS.

The Minister said: “Common to all high-performing schools is strong leadership, which in turn fosters good teaching and I pay tribute to the school leaders, teachers and governors from all of the establishments who achieved a ‘Very Good’ or ‘Outstanding’ rating in the past year. Such a rating is proof that schools are meeting the complex range of pupil needs, helping them achieve to their full potential.

“My aim is for all schools to perform to a high level and I believe that, with the help of strong leaders and effective teachers, this is an achievable vision,” said the Minister.