Top of the class! Pupils honoured for perfect attendance

Eight young people from Ballycastle, Ballymena, Ballymoney, Larne, Newtownabbey and Portrush areas had a combined total of 108 years without missing a day off school.

Twelve years’ full attendance was achieved by half of the young people – Erin Margaret Hanna had full attendance at William Pinkerton Memorial Primary School and Ballymoney High School.

Laura Jayne Hegarty never missed a day at Eden Primary School, Ballymoney, and Ballymoney High School.

James Alexander Wysner clocked up his 12 years unblemished record at Ballycastle Integrated Primary School and Ballycastle High School.

At a certificate presentation at Antrim Board Centre, the Board’s Chairman Rev Selwoode Graham commended all the young adults for their excellent achievement.

The Rev Graham said:“It is absolutely fantastic to see so many young people being honoured for not having missed a day off school in twelve or fourteen years. You all should feel extremely proud of yourselves for such dedication, which I hope continues into your adult life.

“Being blessed with good health plays a huge part, but credit also goes to your parents for their encouragement during times which may have been very difficult.

“I would like to take this opportunity to wish each and every one of you best wishes for your future and may you succeed in all that you do.”