Northern Ireland's education minister Caitriona Ruane today praised the North's GCSE students who again secured an increase in top grades, but warned any unhappy with their results not to panic.
Three quarters of students scored the top A-C grades, with 9.1 per cent awarded the top A* grade, an increase on last year.
Ms Ruane, and Employment and Learning Minister Sir Reg Empey, congratulated young people on this year's GCSE results.
Grades of A* — C were achieved by 75.1 per cent of candidates, an increase of 0.6 per cent, while 9.1 per cent were awarded the top A* grade, representing a rise of 0.2 per cent.
This year's crop of students maintained the annual trend of top grades and again outperformed exam candidates in England and Wales.
Minister Ruane said: "These are excellent results and they show the determination of our young people to work to the best of their ability. Congratulations to all the students receiving results today.
"Teachers and parents have inspired and motivated our young people to work hard to achieve these
results and they should also be congratulated for their hard work and dedication.
"Young people today are determined and committed to their education as they are more focused on their future career and pursuits. I wish everyone who received results over the past week, the best of luck in pursuing their career goals."
Sir Reg Empey congratulated successful pupils, but he advised all students to
consider their future with care.
"However, some of you will not be as happy with the results as you would have expected," he said.
"I would like to reassure you and indeed your parents or guardians that there is no need to panic. It is important to take stock and consider all the options. Do not make any hasty or rushed decisions.
"There are a number of options open and there is support available to help in the decision-making
process. My department's careers service will support you in making important decisions about your options.
"As a first step you can log onto www.careersserviceni.com to avail of a wealth of useful information and to locate your nearest careers office."
The results data published today covered the overall performance in Northern Ireland.
Girls continued to outperform boys at the top grade A* — C, with a total of 10.8 per cent of girls received a grade A* compared to 7.2 per cent of boys.
The statistics released today also showed that 77.8 per cent of girls achieved grades A*-C compared to 72.3 per cent of boys.
Minister Ruane added: "While these are excellent results, there are still too many young people leaving education without the necessary five GCSEs and that is why I have been implementing progressive reforms to improve the education system.
"We need an education system that will provide the skills and abilities so our young people will thrive and prosper."
PA