Commenting as students in Northern Ireland received their A Level and vocational qualification results, Paul Whiteman, general secretary of school leaders' union NAHT, said:

“Congratulations to all students receiving their results today. This is a moment to recognise and celebrate the hard work, resilience and achievement of students receiving their qualifications. It is also a moment to acknowledge the dedication of teachers, leaders and support staff who have worked tirelessly to teach and guide them along the way.

“Whether students are progressing to university, apprenticeships, further education, training or employment, we wish them every success in the next stage of their journey. Today's outcomes are an important achievement, but they are just one step on many different paths to future success.

“As these students take their next steps, it is vital that those coming next have access to a post-16 education system that offers genuine choice and opportunity.

“That means protecting a broad and flexible qualifications landscape that values academic, vocational and technical learning equally, ensuring young people can combine different qualifications to follow the right pathway for them, that best reflects their strengths, ambitions and individual learning needs.

“We must also ensure no student is left behind by maintaining a wide range of funded qualifications, including at Level 2 and below, and protecting progression routes, particularly for disadvantaged learners, learners with SEND, young carers and others whose educational journeys may not follow a straightforward or traditional route.

“Finally, schools and colleges need the resources to offer exciting and appealing opportunities regardless of where students live. Young people's access to courses, training and industry placements should not depend on their postcode. Every student deserves the support and opportunities they need to fulfil their potential.”