In pictures: Students at Cookstown High School record another set of outstanding results at GCSE level

Pupils, parents and staff came together to recognise an outstanding set of results that reflects the commitment of the entire school community.

This year, 28.5% of all grades awarded were at A/A*, while 49% of grades were at A-B. Overall, 86% of pupils achieved five or more GCSEs at grades A-C*, with 73% securing five or more A-C grades including English and Mathematics. These excellent outcomes provide a strong platform for pupils as they embark on the next stage of their educational journey, with many choosing to continue their studies in Cookstown High School’s thriving Sixth

Form.

Principal, Miss Gwyneth Evans, congratulated the Class of 2026 on their achievements: "Today is a day of celebration for our pupils, and I am delighted to congratulate every one of them on their GCSE results. Behind every grade lies a story of perseverance, resilience and determination. Our pupils have worked exceptionally hard throughout their time at Cookstown High School, and it is wonderful to see that commitment rewarded.

“These achievements reflect not only academic success but also the values that define our school community. We are proud to see our young people develop into confident, respectful and ambitious individuals who are ready to embrace the opportunities ahead.

“I would like to sincerely thank our dedicated staff, whose expertise, encouragement and unwavering commitment have helped our pupils to flourish. I also extend my gratitude to our parents and carers for the invaluable support they have provided throughout this journey. When school and home work together, our pupils are able to achieve remarkable things.

“We look forward to welcoming many of our pupils back into Sixth Form, where they will continue to be challenged, supported and inspired as they prepare for university, apprenticeships and future careers.”

Among the many outstanding individual performances were twelve pupils who achieved

exceptional results: Ben – 3 A*s and 7 As; Luke – 5 A*s and 5 As; Ellie – 4 A*s and 7 As; Lewis – 5 A*s and 4 As; James – 6 A*s and 4 As; Lexie – 3 A*s and 7 As; Lucy – 4 A*s and 6 As; Darcey – 2 A*s and 7 As; Sophie – 9 As;

David – 1 A*, 8 As and 1 B; Rhea – 5 A*s and 4 As; Ella – 9 A*s.

Success was evident across the curriculum, with seventeen subjects recording more than half of all grades at A-B*. These included Art and Design, Biology, Business Studies, Digital Technology, English Literature, French, Further Mathematics, History, Home Economics, Mathematics, Physics, Religious Studies, Spanish, Statistics, Applied ICT, Health and Social Care, and Engineering. Such breadth of achievement reflects the strength of teaching and learning across the school and the wide range of opportunities available to pupils.