Minister congratulates A and AS level students

Date published: 18 August 2016

Overall performance remains strong and stable with a small increase on last year in grades awarded A* to A. Entries in Mathematics rose this year by 1.4% and is the second year in a row the subject has been the most popular A level, accounting for almost 11% of all Northern Ireland A level entries.

Speaking during a visit to Sullivan Upper in Holywood, Education Minister Peter Weir said:

“My congratulations go to all of the pupils who have received their results today. Our young people have performed very well and I wish them well in their next steps.

“I am pleased that as with previous years our students have outperformed their counterparts in England and Wales.

“Worthy of note is the level of participation in STEM subjects which remain popular with a growth in female participation in subjects such as Mathematics and Computing. Employers continue to tell us about the growing need for students with Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths subjects and this year, entries in a number of STEM subjects from female students have increased.

“For some students, today’s results will not be what they had hoped and I would urge them not to be too disappointed. There are many education and employment options open to students who may be unsure of their next steps. Please take time to consider the many choices available to you.”

The Department for the Economy’s Careers Service can help you by providing professional, impartial careers advice. Young people and parents can call 0300 200 7820 to speak directly to a careers adviser. You can also access useful information through the Careers Service web pages on nidirect. Alternatively, advice and guidance can also be accessed through an online instant messaging facility on nidirect. The telephone and webchat service have been extended from 9.00am to 8.00pm on both Thursday 18 and Friday 19 August to provide additional support to those who have received A level results.