Dominican College Portstewart Applauds GCSE Achievements of 2025
Dominican College Portstewart is celebrating another year of exceptional success as students received their GCSE results today. Smiles, relief, and pride filled the school corridors as Year 12 pupils marked the culmination of two years of study with an impressive set of results that continue the College’s tradition of excellence.
This year’s results reflect both the academic ability and the resilience of Dominican students. An outstanding 99% achieved 5A–C* grades, with 89% securing a minimum of 7A*-C. Staff and families alike praised the hard work and determination of the Year 12 cohort, who have balanced academic commitments with active involvement in wider school life.
Principal, Mrs Ruth Oliver expressed her pride in the students’ performance:
“These results are a testament to the hard work and perseverance of our Year 12 pupils. We are incredibly proud of each and every student for their achievements, the work ethic they have demonstrated and the determined mindset displayed. Our staff have worked tirelessly to guide and support them, and the partnership between home and school has once again proven vital to student success.”
Strong Progress in Year 11 Modules
Alongside today’s GCSE achievements, Dominican College also highlighted the excellent outcomes achieved by current Year 11 students in their first set of modular examinations. Many pupils recorded strong grades across all subjects, laying down a strong foundation for their final year of study.
Teachers noted that these results not only showcase the ability of the Year 11 cohort but also provide momentum and confidence as they move into Year 12. The success in modules has given pupils a clear roadmap for improvement, allowing them to refine their skills and maximise their potential when they complete their full GCSE qualifications next summer.
Mrs Oliver commented on the promise shown by this younger group:
“We are delighted with the solid foundation Year 11 students have built. Their strong module results provide a very positive starting point for Year 12 and give us every confidence that they will achieve outstanding final grades.”
Achievement Across a Broad Curriculum
Dominican College prides itself on offering a wide and balanced curriculum, which extends beyond the classroom.
Many of the students receiving results today are also athletes, musicians, artists, and leaders in community initiatives. Their ability to balance academic achievement with extracurricular commitments reflects the Dominican ethos of ‘developing the whole child’.
Pathways to the Future
For many Year 12 students, these GCSE results represent the gateway to further study. A significant proportion will return to Dominican College to pursue A-Levels in Sixth Form, taking advantage of the school’s broad offering of subjects. Others will choose training programmes or employment opportunities that build on their strengths and interests.
Mrs Oliver encouraged students to approach their next steps with confidence:
“Whether continuing with us into Sixth Form or embarking on new challenges, our students carry with them the Dominican values of truth, faith, responsibility, respect, kindness, forgiveness and justice. These results show they are more than ready for the future.”
Community Effort
Behind every success story lies the support of families, the commitment of staff, and the encouragement of peers. Dominican College extended gratitude to parents and carers for their role in nurturing resilience and motivation at home, whilst also acknowledging the dedication of teachers and support staff who worked diligently to prepare students for their examinations.
A Celebration of Potential
Today’s results are not just an end point but a beginning. They mark the opening of new opportunities for each student, whether in further education, apprenticeships, or employment. For Dominican College, the day is a celebration of potential fulfilled — and a promise of greater achievements to come.
Mrs Oliver concluded with a message to students:
“Today we celebrate your achievements, whilst looking ahead with great excitement. As Dominicans you are encouraged to create a legacy and ‘leave the world a little bit better’. Be assured that this is what you have done so far. Well Done, we are very proud of each and every one of you”.
