Newtownhamilton High School is the top controlled non-selective school at GCSE

Over 78% of pupils achieved at least five GCSE’s including English and maths, up from 65% in the 14/15 academic year.  The result means they are fourth in Northern Ireland of all non-grammar schools.

The school prides itself on having a rich and diverse curriculum geared towards the needs and aspirations of all pupils.

Working with other schools and education establishments in the Newry and Mourne Area Learning Community, allows Newtownhamilton High to offer a wider choice of subjects at key stage 4.

Newtownhamilton High also focus on having smaller class sizes, aiming to not have more than 20 pupils in each class.

The school believes that these factors alongside a varied extra-curricular programme helps each pupil to fulfil their maximum potential.

Newtownhamilton High Principal, Mr Neil Megaw said

While we are delighted with our placing in these latest league tables, it is important to stress that this is not a one year wonder and that we have been consistently performing exceptionally well over the past 10 years. In fact, our current 3 year average is 20% above the Northern Ireland average for similar type schools.

I have always said that the success of any school depends on staff, parents and pupils all working in partnership. Yes, there were a few challenging moments along the way but collectively the class of 2016 produced an outstanding set of exam results and therefore I pay tribute to everyone involved in this achievement.

Other controlled schools also featured highly in the rankings. 

Markethill High were the second highest achieving controlled non-selective school.

Almost 65% of its pupils achieved at least five GCSE’s including English and maths.  If any five GCSE’s are considered, this rises to almost 90% of pupils.

Ballycastle High were third with over 61%, Castlederg High were fourth and Rathfriland High were fifth, with 60.9% and 60.3% respectively.

CSSC chief executive Barry Mulholland congratulated the schools and pupils on their accomplishments saying

I was delighted to see the results of these schools and I congratulate them all on their hard work.

One of the aims of CSSC is to work with all schools across the controlled sector to raise standards and to further raise levels of achievement.

We recognise and agree that academic performance is not the only method of measuring success, however we are keen to acknowledge all areas of achievement from our member schools.

9 June 2017