Pupils, parents and staff at Priory IC, Holywood, were celebrating their GCSE successes on Thursday and were especially delighted to discover that the college had hit all of its targets for GCSE achievement this year, exceeding expectations in many subjects, especially the core courses of GCSE English and Mathematics, which saw significant increases in the number of students achieving the top grades of A*-C.

‘We are delighted for the students,’ said Jacqui Magennis, the Principal.  ‘As an all-ability integrated school, we aim high for all of our students, and it is wonderful to see so many of them exceeding all of their expectations.  They have gained excellent grades in all curriculum areas, including practical, vocation and the traditional academic subjects.  They now have a top notch educational passport to further and higher education.  That is the key to their success here in Priory  – high quality teaching and a pastoral care system that helps them believe that their potential is limitless.’

Two thirds of the year group achieved at least 5 GCSEs at grades A*-C , and many of those students are now looking forward to returning in September to study for their A Levels at Priory.  ‘We are also immensely proud of all of the students who have secured places elsewhere,  at the various regional training colleges and in employment.’

Anyone interested in finding out more about Priory Integrated College should direct their enquiries by telephone on 02890423481 or by email to info@prioycollege.holyood.ni.sch.uk