LEARNERS celebrating achieving their vocational qualifications have been praised for their hard work.
The Open College Network (OCN) - the north's leading technical awarding body - said everyone should be proud of their results.
OCN helps advance education by developing and awarding qualifications for adults and young people.
It works in collaboration with the six Further Education colleges, schools, community and voluntary organisations, and other training providers.
It has awarded more than 27,000 vocational and technical qualifications this academic year - a 21 per cent increase on 2020.
Chief Executive Martin Flynn, said learners "worked so hard this year in overcoming national lockdowns and closures to schools, colleges, training providers and workplaces, and they should be proud of
their results".
"We must also not forget about the amazing job teachers and tutors have done in supporting people to progress - whether that's into further education or the world of work," he said.
"A 21 per cent increase in the numbers of people achieving an OCN qualification is worth celebrating. It feels like those who achieve a vocational qualification can sometimes be forgotten, especially at this time of year.
"Unlike GCSE and A-levels, vocational and technical qualification results are released throughout the year, so there isn’t that focus on a particular month when their achievements are celebrated."
The six Further Education colleges, meanwhile, have commended all their students on their results this year.
Ken Webb, chairman of the Further Education Colleges Principals’ Group said it had been a challenging year, with most of the learning experienced virtually from bedrooms and kitchen tables.
However, students rose to the occasion and displayed great resilience, he said.
"We have seen thousands of young people receive results in A-levels, BTECs and GSCEs through their local college, and we are proud to see them all receive these vital qualifications. Gaining qualifications like BTECs and A-levels not only helps progression to further study, but it means our local economy gains workers who are highly skilled and competent," he added.
"As students across Northern Ireland now make decisions on their next steps, we want to ensure they are aware of the options available to them at their local Further Education college. There are hundreds of courses available at the six colleges including higher education options such as Higher National Diplomas, Higher Level Apprenticeships and Foundation Degrees as well as A-level, Level 3 Advanced technical and our new Traineeships.
"These courses offers students a balanced way of learning which will support them in whatever pathway they choose, be that university or entering full-time employment, through skilled training and qualifications."
