GCSE pupils rewarded for 'willingness to embrace the many opportunities provided' by St Louis Grammar School, Ballymena

The results of this cohort, the school emphasises, are all the more remarkable, given the unprecedented circumstances they faced when the Covid-19 pandemic disrupted their final year of primary school. Despite these challenges, the students have shown remarkable perseverance and a willingness to embrace the many opportunities provided by St Louis throughout their time at the school.

St Louis Grammar School prides itself on being renowned for academic excellence, and believes outcomes achieved by this cohort further cement that reputation. One hundred per cent of Year 12 students attained five or more GCSEs at Grades A* - C (including English and Maths), with an outstanding 97% of students achieving seven or more GCSEs at Grades A*- C (including English and Maths). A total of 63 students are celebrating an impressive 8 A*/A grades or more and 68 students are celebrating 7 A* /A grades or more. Remarkably, 81% of all GCSE results at St Louis Grammar were awarded at Grades A* - B.

Principal Jacqui O’Neill said: “We are immensely proud of the Class of 2026. These results are a wonderful reward for the effort they have invested over the past two years. They have remained focused, worked hard and shown great self-belief throughout their studies. Every student fully deserves the success they have achieved. I also want to pay tribute to our dedicated teaching and support staff. Their expertise, encouragement and belief in our students have been instrumental in helping this year group reach their potential. As with our exceptional A Level outcomes, these results would not be possible without them.

"Sincere thanks also to our parents and families, for the encouragement and support they have provided throughout these important years and for working in partnership with our school. At St Louis, we believe that success is about much more than examination results. Our vision of Excellence, Endeavour and Empowerment is about helping our pupils develop confidence, resilience and the skills they need to thrive. These students have demonstrated all three in abundance.

"Today is a day to celebrate their achievements, but it is also an exciting time to plan for the future and consider the many opportunities their qualifications will bring. We look forward to welcoming many of our students back in September as they begin their A Level studies, while wishing those who are taking different paths every success as they begin the next chapter of their lives. Congratulations to the entire GCSE Class of 2026. Their achievements are a testament to the positive relationships that underpin life at St Louis Grammar School. Through academic, pastoral, sporting, cultural and extracurricular opportunities, students are encouraged to discover their strengths, develop their talents and aspire to achieve their very best.

"As the school community celebrates this year’s results, St Louis remains committed to providing an education which combines high academic expectations with outstanding pastoral care, ensuring that every student is supported, challenged and empowered to reach their full potential. Today we are delighted to commend the GCSE Class of 2026 – a year group that truly deserves this success, having demonstrated such resilience, determination and hard work.”