In a well-written and comprehensive statement, the Ministry of Education in Anguilla has presented an analysis of the results of the May/June 2015 CXC Examinations, as well as expressed satisfaction with the performance of the island’s students.
The Ministry notes that there have been “many improvements across the spectra of the examinations” and applauded the Albena Lake-Hodge Comprehensive School, the students and their parents. The Ministry has also taken the opportunity to stress its steadfast “commitment to promoting an ethos of excellence in our education system.”
Following is the full text of the statement from the Ministry of Education:
” The Ministry of Education is quite satisfied with this year’s performance of secondary level students who sat the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) examinations, with many improvements seen across the spectra of examinations. Based on the improvement in the overall performance at the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examinations (CAPE) and the Caribbean Certificate of Secondary Level Competence (CCSLC) programmes, and improvement in the quality of the student performance at the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) level, it is evident that efforts are being made by many towards raising the level of achievement nationally.
“This year, in the Caribbean Certificate of Secondary Level Competence (CCSLC) programme there was an increased number of entries with some 667 subject entries in the six different subject areas. Thirty four percent (34%) of the subject entries achieved the level of mastery up from 32% in 2014. Overall, 83% of the subject entries were successful at the CCSLC programme for 2015.
“At the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) level, this year saw an increase in the number of candidate entries with some 186 candidates undertaking examinations at General and Technical Proficiencies at the Albena Lake Hodge Comprehensive School. Although this year saw a slight decline in the overall performance in the CSEC May/June 2015 examinations with 76% of the subject entries achieving grades I to III, as compared to 78% in 2014, there were many bright spots. There was an increase, though slight in the level of grade achievement with some 50% of the subject entries gaining grades I and II , a necessity for continued study in the particular subject area. Of note as well is the fact that in nineteen of the subjects offered, more that 75% of the candidates achieved Grades I to III with some nine subject areas comprising 100% passes.
“There was general improvement in CSEC English; a slight improvement in English A and a marked improvement in English B, with 95% of the candidates achieving grade I this year, up from 87% in 2014. This year we have also seen some improvement in Mathematics with 57% achieving grades I to III up 2% from last year’s performance.
“The performance of students who sat the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examinations (CAPE) is also commendable. This year registered an increase in the number of candidates and subject entries with 136 candidates from Upper and Lower Six Form at the Albena Lake Hodge Comprehensive School and 551 subject entries. This year students were able to undertake examinations in Agricultural Science, Physical Education and Sports, Tourism and Entrepreneurship for the first time. Eighty eight percent (88%) of the subject entries presented achieved passing grades or grades I to V with 38% achieving I to III. Of note is the fact that in 34 of the Units examined more than 75% of the candidates achieved grades I to V with 100% passes in 23 Units.
“The Ministry of Education applauds the strides being made at the Albena Lake Hodge Comprehensive School to cater to the needs of its multifarious student population. The Ministry is quite pleased with the continued improved performance in English and is delighted that performance in Mathematics has taken an upward turn. This is particularly in light of the priorities in the five year Education Development Plan for 2010 to 2015 which speaks to improved performance in Math, Science and Technology. We encourage the staff of the ALHCS, not to relax their efforts despite the many challenges and to continue to strive for and maintain excellence.
“The Ministry congratulates all the students and their parents on their achievements and extends deepest gratitude to all those who contributed to their success. Special thanks to out-going Principal Mrs Ingrid Lake, the Senior Management Team, teachers and other professional staff of the Albena Lake Hodge Comprehensive School for their dedication and commitment to duty in ensuring positive student outcomes and promoting excellence. We are grateful for the work that you do towards the development of our human capital which is a critical component of nation building. The Ministry thanks parents, guardians and all others who provided the students with the necessary love, guidance and support to ensure their success. Your involvement is of vital importance and we encourage you to continue in your support of our nation’s children.
“The Ministry wishes to recognize and commend all of our top performers who have managed to distinguish themselves and stand comparable with the rest of the region. You have shown that Anguilla has much potential and much to be proud of.
“Thanks are also extended to all our community partners in education. You have responded to our requests for assistance on many occasions where we may have fallen short and willingly contributed where possible. The Ministry therefore recognizes your contribution to the success of our students.
“The Ministry of Education remains steadfast to its commitment to promoting an ethos of excellence in our education system. Recognizing the key role that education plays, we continue to work towards raising standards in an effort to achieve sustainable national development. ”