Key features of the provisional 2017 GCSE results
The provisional GCSE results for Island pupils in the Department of Education and Children’s five secondary schools are strong, with a considerable majority of pupils attaining higher passes in key subjects, and a good percentage of pupils attaining five A*-C grades, including English and maths.
Other features of the provisional 2017 GCSE results
More than 800 Year 11 pupils sat GCSE and equivalent examinations in May and June. There were entries in approximately 50 separate examination titles ranging from performing arts to business studies and from leisure and tourism to statistics. Nearly every student was entered for maths and English and also had at least one entry in science.
The total number of full GCSE (or equivalent) entries was approximately 6,500. Around one third of these were International GCSEs.
Provisional analysis shows:
- 56.3% of Island pupils gained five grades A*-C including English and Maths. This is down on last year, but higher than most previous years.
- Approximately 18% of the entries produced A or A* grades. This is down slightly on last year’s figure, but in line with previous years.
- 68.8% of all Island GCSE entries were graded at A*-C. This is down on the last two years, and in line with other years.
- 98.7% of full course passes were graded A*-G. This maintains the high standard set over several years.
- The average number of subjects entered by our pupils – (8.7 GCSEs or equivalent) is down from 9.2 (2016) and reflects a reduction generally in the number of entries per person at GCSE level.
Joel Smith, DEC School Improvement Adviser, said:
‘This is a strong set of results for our schools, set against the backdrop of curriculum reform nationally over the past two years. Outcomes today reflect the huge effort our young people have put in when approaching this significant juncture in their lives.
‘In the key subjects of English and maths, pupils have performed exceptionally well and given themselves a wide range of choices when approaching their continuing education and future employment.’
Once again, there are reports from the schools of pupils attaining a mixture of all A* and A grades. One headteacher commented on the remarkable achievement of one pupil who gained six A* and five A grades despite facing a potentially life threatening illness when she was in Year 8.
Another headteacher was full of praise for pupils who have achieved excellent results in challenging circumstances, saying:
‘Some of our pupils have faced considerable adversity, from dealing with bereavement to managing personal illness. The past two years have been tough for them and I am extremely proud of their achievements today.’
Graham Cregeen MHK, Minister for Education and Children, said:
‘The Island’s pupils and our schools have continued the pattern of success we’ve enjoyed over several years, while meeting the challenges associated with changing qualifications.
‘This has resulted in an impressive percentage of passes at higher grades.
‘I would like to congratulate all of our young people on their achievements and thank the teachers and school leaders for their continued hard work and determination to maintain good outcomes for our pupils.
‘Whether they are looking to undertake post-16 courses in our five secondary schools, take up a place at University College Isle of Man (UCM) or, for a smaller number, seeking take up employment, I wish them well on their continuing lifelong learning journey.’
The results published today are not comparable with results released in the UK this week. The UK results include all exam entries, including those from pupils in the Isle of Man as well as UK selective schools, independent schools and further education colleges. The Isle of Man data relates solely to 16-year-olds who have completed Year 11 in the DEC’s five secondary schools.
