St Patrick’s Grammar School Armagh is celebrating what it described as a major improvement in GCSE performance, after results were published on Thursday 20 August 2026.
The school’s principal, pupils, parents and staff marked the results together, with the school highlighting a substantial rise in the proportion of pupils achieving key grades including English and Maths.
Performance rises across key GCSE measures
The percentage of pupils achieving five A*–C grades, including English and Maths, increased to 81%. The school also reported that the proportion achieving seven A*–C grades including English and Maths rose by 25%.
The principal said the results represented a “huge improvement” in the school’s performance and had established new standards for St Patrick’s Grammar School. The principal also praised the pupils for the progress they had made during the year and thanked parents, staff and the wider school community for their support.
“As a school community we are absolutely delighted with the GCSE performance of our pupils. This year the percentage of pupils achieving five A* – C grades including English and Maths increased dramatically to 81%. The percentage achieving seven A* – C grades including English and Maths jumped by 25%.
“This represents a huge improvement in our performance and sets new standards for our school. Our boys made huge strides throughout the year to be the best they could be. They delivered on every occasion, and they should be incredibly proud of the young men they have become. We are also delighted to have such an amazing group of parents who support us and encouraged their sons to go the extra mile.
“The staff of St Patrick’s Grammar School have excelled. All members of staff worked so diligently to create an environment that allowed our boys to thrive. We would also like to thank the wider St Patrick’s Grammar School community. Without your constant help and support our school would never be as successful as it currently is.”
Armagh pupils among the highest achievers
Several pupils were identified among the school’s leading performers. Jake McGurk, Faolan McCann and Ryan Donnelly each achieved at least 10 A*/A grades in their GCSEs.
Jake Gordon and Sean Callaghan each achieved nine A*/A grades, while Sean Og Brady, Daniel Campbell, Charlie Doyle and Martin Quinn recorded an eight A*/A grade profile.
The school said the achievements reflected the pupils’ hard work and perseverance. Mrs Noeleen Gillan, head of Key Stage 4, praised the group and said the results should give them confidence as they move on to their next steps.
“I am so proud of this group of young men. Their hard work and perseverance deserve recognition. I hope their achievements inspire them and gives them the confidence to never stop believing in themselves. We wish you all the very best and will provide you with support as you take these next steps.”
The GCSE success was reported by Armagh I on 21 August 2026, following the publication of results at the Armagh school the previous day.