‘Fantastic’ results celebrated at Ballyclare Secondary

In a statement issued to the Times, Principal Mrs Bell said: “Even though Year 14 ended earlier than we hoped and our pupils were denied the opportunity to complete the examinations they had been working towards, they have been rewarded for all their hard work and effort throughout the year up to school closure in March.

“Pupils were celebrating a very different but successful results day and we are delighted to report the fantastic results that our young people have achieved at GCE AS, A2 and equivalent Level 3 courses. The number of pupils obtaining all three of their GCE A2 subjects at grades A* to C has actually shown an increase this year.

“There were many super individual performances and it was a joy to see so many young people achieve such positive results and fulfil their potential. It is just a pity that after all our young people have been through the celebrations were more that of relief that this stressful time is over.

“The outgoing Year 14 was a very dedicated and hardworking year group and this was clearly evident throughout their seven years in school. They deserve their high levels of attainment and as a staff we are absolutely delighted for them. What the grades awarded show is how well our teachers know their pupils. Teachers were able to complete the process of awarding centre assessed grades with confidence.”

Mrs Bell continued: “As we reflect on all that has happened because of the Covid-19 pandemic what is evident is that our teachers believed that our young people were capable of attaining very good grades and the evidence gathered supported this. The targets seemed right for each young person and with high quality teaching and encouragement; pupils strived to be the best they could be.

“Success comes when everyone works together. Even though not an exam was completed this work ethic from pupil and staff alike has pulled us through a very challenging time for staff, pupils and education as a whole.

“We are delighted to have a number of subjects for which there were no adjustments made and for some the adjustments made were positive! That said, we feel that a number of our pupils have been unfairly graded and we will complete the relevant appeals processes to ensure that they receive the correct grade.

“As a school we value all of the grades achieved by all our pupils, whether that is an A* or an E grade, it is our ethos that all pupils should have a rewarding educational experience and we aim for ‘personal excellence’ – this is something every pupil can achieve. All our young people have to work incredibly hard to achieve their grades, attaining three GCE A Levels is a tremendous achievement and we are delighted for all our Year 14 pupils.”

Mrs Bell added: “Many pupils have already secured their places at university and further education colleges.

“Others have been successful in gaining higher-level apprenticeships and others have already entered their chosen area of employment. We wish them all continuing success as they continue on their education journey or take up their place in the world of work.

“Year 13 pupils have achieved an impressive set of results in their GCE AS Courses. These results are very encouraging and build a solid platform for pupils to build on next year.

“Pupils and staff have all worked extremely hard and deserve the great results they have achieved. We also acknowledge the support of parents and the very important part they continue to play in the success of Ballyclare Secondary School.”

Meanwhile, Education Minister Peter Weir had praised this year’s students. For more on this, read here.

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