This morning (Thursday, August 18), students across Fermanagh received their A-Level results, marking the beginning of the next chapter of their lives as they go on to either university, higher education, travel or work.

Education Minister Michelle McIlveen congratulated A-Level and AS-Level students who received their results following the first public examinations since 2019 and the start of the pandemic.

The Minister acknowledged the significant challenges faced by these young people during the past three academic years, which she said makes their achievements all the more remarkable.

The percentage of students receiving the highest grades compared favourably to 2019, the last time qualifications were awarded on the basis of public examinations.

Some 44 per cent of A-Level entries were awarded the highest grades of A*- A, marking a 14.6 percentage point increase on 2019.

The percentage of students achieving grades A* to E was also higher than in 2019, with more than 99 per cent of students being awarded these grades.

Minister McIlveen said: “I congratulate all of the young people who have received their A-Level and AS Level results today.

"They have worked incredibly hard in their studies and this has been reflected in the grades they have deservedly achieved.

"Despite three years of disrupted learning, our young people have shown immense determination, resilience and tenacity in their studies.

“I send my very best wishes to all our students for the future, as they move on to their next step in education, employment or training.”

She added: “I also wish to pay tribute to teachers across Northern Ireland who have, within the most challenging circumstances, continued to be at the heart of students’ education throughout this crucial year.

"Without their enthusiasm, dedication and commitment, today’s successes would not have been possible.”

Commenting on this year’s examinations process, the Minister said: “Working closely with CCEA, my Department put in place bespoke assessment arrangements taking account of disruption while maintaining the credibility of the qualifications.

"I thank all those who have been involved in delivering this approach, including our schools and everyone involved in the examination and marking process.

"It has been a real partnership effort, which has resulted in a successful exam series.

“This year’s return to examinations marks a positive step towards more normal teaching and assessment arrangements.”

To support young people in returning to examinations this summer, the Department of Education put in place an extensive package of support measures and mitigations.

This included adapting qualification so that learners had fewer exams and less content to revise, and more than £1 million of additional funding for small group teaching, Easter revision classes, revision resources and academic support.