Key features of the provisional Isle of Man level 1 and 2 results*
The provisional level 2 (GCSE or equivalent) results for Island pupils in the Isle of Man Government’s five secondary schools are very strong and represent a record standard of attainment in iGCSEs, GCSEs, BTECs, and other applied qualifications.
More than 800 Year 11 pupils sat GCSE and equivalent examinations in May and June. There were entries in approximately 50 separate subject areas ranging from Spanish to Global Perspectives and from Engineering to Computer Science. Nearly every student was entered for Maths and English language, and also had at least one entry in Science.
Headlines:
- 61.7% of pupils have attained 5 or more L2 (A*-C) passes including English and Maths. This equals the highest on record from 2016
- The percentage of pupils gaining A*-A grades or equivalent is up by 4% on last year
- 72.3% of all Island entries were graded at L2 (A*-C). This is also the highest on record
- 2019 has seen an increased number (around 10%) of pupils achieving vocational or applied qualifications linked to employment sectors on the Isle of Man. The Department of Education Sport and Culture (DESC) and the Department for Enterprise (DfE) have worked closely with Construction, Hospitality, Engineering and ICT/Digital media industries to ensure on Island opportunities are available for these pupils
Joel Smith, DESC School Improvement Adviser, said:
'This is an excellent set of results for our schools. Outcomes today reflect the continuing strength of the Island’s education system, which is focused, in equal measure, on raising academic standards, and ensuring pupils leave school with an array of skills and attributes key to their future success in life. We are very proud of the hard work and effort shown by our young people, supported every step of the way by our dedicated and highly motivated teaching and support staff.'
In the key subjects of English and Maths, pupils once again performed well and will give them 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.
In one school, four students achieved straight A* grades in all subject areas, including one that passed a full A level in Maths in Year 11.
At another school, a pupil has achieved 9A* grades and 1A.
A pupil from the South of the Island has achieved an A* in Maths, despite considerable learning challenges, and can now pursue her dream career pathway.
Lawrie Hooper (MHK), Political member for Education, Sport and Culture, said:
'Our pupils and our schools have enjoyed a great deal of success today, in spite of the challenges presented by changing qualifications and curriculum reform. Levels of Island attainment remain high, and reflect the hard work put in by pupils and teachers.
'Results today underline the strength of our Education system, which is dedicated to ensuring pupils can flourish in all aspects of life, and contribute to our Island of Enterprise and Opportunity.
'I would like to congratulate all of our students on their achievements and thank the teachers and school leaders for maintaining very high standards of education in all our Island’s schools
'Whether 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 to take up employment, I wish them well on their continuing journey through learning and life.'
Comparisons with other jurisdictions
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 DESC’s five secondary schools.
Across the UK, there are different types of qualification, ranging from 1-9 GCSEs, A*-G GCSEs, Scottish Nationals, and other courses, all with varying assessment frameworks and result weightings. Direct comparisons with individual countries are therefore not possible, as Isle of Man schools have chosen a range of different L1 and 2 courses, ensuring the very best opportunities for our young people.
Support and Guidance for pupils receiving results
Careers Advice support for pupils who have received their results is available through DESC Careers Advisors at different venues across the Island. For more information visit Signposts.
*L1 = D-G or equivalent grades, L2 = A*-C or equivalent grades
