14/08/2026
Cookstown High School Celebrates Outstanding A Level Success in 2026
There was a real sense of celebration at Cookstown High School as pupils received their A Level results, marking another year of outstanding academic achievement. The excellent outcomes reflect the hard work, determination and resilience of pupils, supported throughout their studies by dedicated staff and the wider school community.
The results continue Cookstown High School's strong tradition of academic success and will enable pupils to take the next step in their chosen pathways. Whether progressing to university, higher level apprenticeships, employment or further education, this year's Year 14 cohort leaves the school equipped with the knowledge, skills and confidence to succeed.
As a combined grammar and secondary school, Cookstown High School is committed to providing every pupil with the opportunity to fulfil their potential. Alongside high-quality teaching and learning, pupils benefit from a rich programme of leadership opportunities, educational visits, sport, music, drama and community engagement. These experiences, combined with excellent pastoral care, ensure pupils develop both academically and personally during their time at the school.
This year's results once again demonstrate the school's high standards. 40% of all grades awarded were at A* or A, maintaining performance above the Northern Ireland average which was 30.7%. Almost two-thirds (63%) of grades achieved were at A*-B, while an outstanding 90% of grades were awarded at A*-C. These excellent outcomes have enabled the overwhelming majority of pupils to secure their preferred university course, apprenticeship or career pathway.
Several subject areas achieved exceptional success, recording a 100% A*-C pass rate. These included Art and Design, Chemistry, Design and Technology, Engineering, English Literature, Further Mathematics, Geography, Physics, Religious Studies, Spanish and Sport, reflecting the strength and consistency of teaching across the curriculum.
Among the highest achievers this year were:
Rebecca– A*A*A*
Megan – A*A*A
Laura– A*AA
Amelia– A*AA
James– AAA
Katie– AAA
Phoebe – AAA
Hannah– AAA
Principal Miss Gwyneth Evans praised the achievements of the Class of 2026.
‘Today we celebrate not simply a set of excellent results, but the determination, resilience and ambition of our Year 14 pupils. Each result represents a story of effort, challenges overcome and potential realised, and I am immensely proud of every young person and all they have achieved.
At Cookstown High School, we strive to create an environment in which every pupil is encouraged to work hard, pursue their ambitions and discover what they are capable of. These outstanding outcomes reflect the commitment of our pupils, the expertise and dedication of our staff, and the excellent support of parents and carers.
We extend our warmest congratulations to all our Year 14 pupils. As they take their next steps into further education, employment and new opportunities, we wish them every success and happiness. They leave us with our greatest confidence in their future, and we look forward with pride to all that they will go on to achieve.’
The school was also delighted to welcome John Trueman, Director of Qualifications at CCEA, who joined staff and pupils on Results Day to recognise and celebrate their achievements. ‘I was delighted to join students and staff at Cookstown High School today to celebrate their A Level results. There was a clear sense of achievement and excitement in the air, and it was great to be part of this. Congratulations to all the young people and best wishes for whatever they go on to do next.’
As another successful cohort leaves Cookstown High School, the school community looks forward with pride to following their future achievements, confident that they will continue to embody the school's values of Excellence, Opportunity and Support wherever their next journey takes them.
