Qualifications Key To Economy - McGuinness

Sixty-Six students from schools across Derry graduated from the internationally acclaimed Step-Up programme. The science-based programme of academic and vocational activities aims to improve pupil's academic performance, aspirations and expectations.

The programme is delivered by schools, the University of Ulster, industry, government agencies and the local hospital.

Addressing the graduates, Mr McGuinness said: "Our workforce needs qualified well trained employees, if we are to achieve our vision of an innovative dynamic economy. It is only by increasing the skill set of our workforce that we can hope to attract the inward investment we need to grow our economy.

"Step Up is playing a key role in helping us achieve that goal, providing 500 qualified, skilled potential employees that would otherwise not have existed and that inward investors are very attracted to."

Mr McGuinness also paid tribute to the programmes outstanding track record: "Since its inception in 2000, Step-Up has been hugely successful in achieving its objectives of raising the aspirations, motivation and performance of students who might otherwise have never gone to university.

"Step-Up is as an outstanding example of best practice in the provision of educational opportunities for students from socially and economically disadvantaged backgrounds."

This years graduates included pupils from Lisneal College, St. Brigid's College, St. Cecilia's College, St. Joseph's Boy's School, and St Mary's College all of whom completed the programme, upholding the course's reputation for outstanding performance by achieving a 100% pass rate with 75% of students achieving A or B grades in their science A-Levels.

Almost 500 students from secondary schools in the north-west have successfully completed the programme and progressed to higher education.

Dr Damian O'Kane, Head of Access & Educational Partnerships, who designed and directs the programme said: "We are delighted once again to be able to showcase the outstanding achievements of the young people who have participated in the programme. It is fitting that the deputy First Minister, a native of this city, is here to share in their celebrations."