Larne Grammar School's principal, John Wilson, described this year's results as outstanding. "While I am reluctant to use statistics, a pass rate of 97.1 percent speaks for itself. Nine pupils achieved three grade As with a further seven being only one grade below - this represents almost one quarter of the year group."

Students who achieved similarly high results were praised by Mr Wilson for their hard work. Ten students achieved four As in the AS results and a further 14 pupils attained at least three As.

Mr Wilson continued: "As a school we constantly strive to ensure that each pupil fulfils his or her potential. These results show that for the vast majority of pupils we are very successful in doing that.

"We also believe that the pupils are well equipped to move into the adult arena with confidence and self-assurance. The results have been achieved at a time of unprecedented change in education when teachers are bogged down in administration and bureaucracy and at a time when funding continues to be reduced in the grammar sector.

"Teachers deserve the full support of the public as they continue to provide an outstanding service despite all the obstacles that are put in their way."


Eileen O'Loan, head teacher of St. MacNissi's College, Garron Tower said that she was very pleased with the excellent results. She said: "92 percent of all grades were in the A-C category with 78 percent of the students attaining three A to C grades or better.

"46 percent of all grades attained were A grades with six students achieving four grade As and a further eight achieving three grade As or better."

Mrs O'Loan commended teaching staff for their dedication and hard work and congratulated Year 14 students. She wished them continued success in their future studies.

Larne High School's vice principal, John Nicholl, said that last Thursday was a busy morning. "Although we have just started to analyse these, we can say that the students at Larne High have once again achieved very pleasing results.

"Students involved in a range of subject at A-Level have achieved outstanding results with pride of place this year going to Art and Design, where four students gained grade As - Erin Bowman, Stephen Clements, Nikita Hegarty and Andrew Martin. Special mention also for head girl, Laura McCourt, who achieved two grade Bs and one grade C."

Mr Nicholl said that many of the students will now be looking forward to entering further education or employment. "We would like to take this opportunity to wish them success in whichever path they choose to take."

John Mulvenna, St Comgall's College vice principal, described the school's results as pleasing. "In terms of A2 we offer a range of vocational courses and approximately 78 percent here achieved two or more subjects at A to C and at AS the majority will be returning to complete their studies.