The number of pupils leaving Markethill High School with 5 or more GCSE passes at A*- C has increased yet again to 94.1%. This represents an increase of 18% in just two years.
Additionally, the number of pupils achieving 5 or more GCSEs at A*- C including English and Maths has risen above 70% for the first time in the school’s history, with 71% of pupils achieving this standard.
It represents an increase of 8% on last year. The school is already identified as one of the top three non-selective Controlled Schools in the country based on last year’s results, and Principal James Maxwell now expects that high position to be maintained and boosted following the recent outstanding successes of students at the school.
Students jumped in the air and celebrated with their teachers as 9 students achieved 8 A*-A grades or more.
Over 80 percent of pupils passed both their GCSE Maths and English exams, setting another record for the school, and the number of boys now attaining 5 or more GCSE passes at A*-C is now better than at any time in the school’s history.
The results come on the back of the school’s Inspection Report from June, which concluded that “the proportion of pupils achieving five or more GCSEs or equivalent, including English and Mathematics, at grades A* to C is now significantly above the average for similar schools”.
Speaking at the school last Thursday morning, Mr Maxwell said: “This is the best result in the school’s history. We are absolutely delighted and I would pay tribute to the dedication, hard work and sheer professionalism of the staff here at Markethill High who always go above and beyond to ensure our pupils are exceptionally well catered for, both academically and pastorally.
“The results are also a clear vindication of this school’s unrelenting priority on the development of high-quality learning and teaching in the classroom.”
Mr Maxwell added: “Behind every single grade is a story. A number of our pupils had many challenges during the course of their GCSE studies including ill health. I would want to convey my pride and admiration at how those pupils have achieved.
“Markethill High School pupils continue to demonstrate that self-belief, hard work and commitment will bring success.
“These results consolidate Markethill High School’s position as a leading non-selective Controlled school in Northern Ireland.”
