NI pupils top of the class on GCSE results day

Northern Ireland's pupils are top of the class when it comes to this year's GCSE results.

More than 30% of students here have got a Grade A or above within their marks and over 80% have got a C or above.

That's better than the figures in both England and Wales.

31.6% of entries in Northern Ireland received grade 7/A or higher, above the equivalent figure for England (21.8%) and Wales (19.5%).

For entries awarded 4/C or higher, Northern Ireland was ahead at 83.5%, some way above England (67.1%) and Wales (62.5%).

Results have been delivered to more than 32,000 pupils across Northern Ireland today for the cohort of pupils that moved from primary to secondary school in the middle of the pandemic.

Gerry Campbell, chief executive of exams board CCEA said: "These results represent the hard work, resilience and determination you've shown throughout your studies, and you should be proud of everything you've achieved.

"Today also marks a key milestone as many of you begin to make decisions about the future, whether that's continuing in education, entering training, or stepping into the world of work.

"I want to extend my sincere thanks to the teachers, school leaders and lecturers who have supported students every step of the way.

"I'm also grateful to our dedicated team of examiners and moderators, whose efforts ensure that results are delivered with fairness and care. Wishing every student success and fulfilment in whatever comes next."