Portadown: prize-giving at St John the Baptist’s College in 16 success-filled photos

The event celebrated academic excellence, leadership, creativity, sportsmanship and the remarkable resilience shown by students throughout their journey in SJBC.

In her opening address, principal Mrs Noella Murray commended students for their “outstanding academic achievement as well as their hard work and perseverance”. She commented that it was also about “celebrating the bright futures that lay ahead for each student”.

The ceremony brought together students, parents, educators and distinguished guests, creating an inspiring atmosphere of recognition and pride.

Mrs Murray welcomed First Minister Michelle O’Neill as guest speaker and paid tribute to her as “an inspirational leader who has broken many barriers and made history as the first nationalist First Minister”. She added: "Her journey is a reminder to our pupils that, no dream is too big, and that with courage, hard work and resilience, they too can shape the future."

Mrs Murray spoke about how proud staff and governors are of the outstanding GCSE results, with 100% of pupils achieving a minimum of 5A*-C grades and 98.9% of pupils achieving a minimum of 7A*-C grades.

She commended past pupils on how they have consistently maintained a very high standard of academic excellence and remarked that the college remains oversubscribed and has been recognised by a range of prestigious national awards this year.

Whilst presenting pupils with their prizes, the First Minister said: “Today’s event gives us the opportunity to recognise your incredible achievements. To celebrate all your hard work and determination, and to say a big thank you to your dedicated and inspirational teachers.

"Congratulations to each and every one of you. I am proud of you all, and I wish you every success for the rest of your studies and in whatever path you choose in years to come.”

In her closing comments Mrs Murray advised: “As you move forward in your lives, I encourage you to be brave, be yourself and never be afraid to walk your own path. Be a positive influence and nurture your faith. Remember, it’s okay not to have everything figured out – life is a journey, not a race.”