Ministers Congratulate A & AS level students

Education Minister John O''Dowd and Employment and Learning Minister Dr Stephen Farry have congratulated students receiving A and AS level results today.

Education Minister John O''Dowd said: ''After their years of hard work, I am delighted to congratulate the thousands of young people on their achievements today, and of course their parents and teachers.

''This year we have seen an increase in A level entries which is encouraging and I am delighted that Maths has topped the poll as the most popular subject with A level students. Employers continue to tell us about the growing need for students with Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths subjects and this year entries in these subjects from female students have increased considerably.

Seeing the relevance of course choices for the future is vital in keeping young people engaged and motivated to achieve and the Entitlement Framework has opened up the choices available to pupils sitting A levels. Our young people have performed well and I wish them well in their next step.

For other young people, today''s results will not be what they had hoped and I would encourage them not to be disheartened. The pathways through study and training to employment are not the same for everyone, and help and advice is available. Teachers, careers advisers and parents can offer good advice and support on the options available to you.

Employment and Learning Minister Dr Stephen Farry said: ''The importance of making an informed decision following exam results is imperative to effective career planning. This milestone often presents a crossroads in a young persons career development and I would encourage students, unsure of their next step, to take advantage of professional careers guidance from my Department''s Careers Service. Careers advisers can provide guidance on a range of options and career related issues, including further and higher education, apprenticeships, training, employment and voluntary work opportunities.

Young people and parents can also access a wealth of useful information through the Careers Service website: http://www.nidirect.gov.uk/results which also contains contact details of all the careers advisers throughout Northern Ireland. Alternatively you can call 0300 200 7820 to speak directly to a careers adviser.

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