Rathfriland pupils among top in province

RATHFRILAND High School pupils were among the top achievers in last year’s GCSE results - with 96 per cent gaining at least five A*-C grades.

The school came second in a table charting the exam results of pupils in non-grammar schools. New Bridge Integretated College had a 77 per cent pass rate at GCSE level and all their pupils who remained at the school to sit A-levels achieved a pass in at least two subjects.

Rathfriland High made a massive improvement on the previous three year’s results when their pass rate failed to reach above 70 per cent. Principal Brian Wilson said he was delighted with the results, published last week in an Irish News table.

“We in Rathfriland High School are delighted again this year to be named in the top 50 highest achieving non-grammar schools in Northern Ireland,” said Mr Wilson. “The Department of Education annually publish the proportion of pupils achieving 5 or more good GCSEs.

“Results for all 149 non-grammar schools were analysed and Rathfriland High School has once again improved its position in the table.

“Such success only comes about when the pupils, parents and staff work together to ensure all children reach their potential. We in Rathfriland High School are proud to offer a broad and balanced curriculum which meets all the requirements of the Entitlement Framework, affording pupils the opportunity to follow both academic and vocational pathways. We celebrate our pupils’ achievements and look forward to continued success.”

Banbridge Academy was placed at number 23 on a list of Northern Ireland’s top grammar schools. Ninety-three per cent of the school’s pupils achieved seven or more passes at GCSE level last year and 83 per cent passed three A-Levels.