Record 30,000 Learner Vocational Qualification Awards from OCN

OPEN COLLEGE NETWORK (OCN), NI’s leading vocational and technical awarding body, has just confirmed it has awarded over 30,000 vocational and technical qualifications to learners during the 2021/22 academic year, setting a new record of achievement in Northern Ireland.   

Working in collaboration with NI’s six further education colleges, schools, community & voluntary organisations, and other training providers, this year’s awards represent an impressive 10% increase on the number of awards made during the previous academic year.

Commenting on this year’s results, the Chief Executive of OCN, Martin Flynn, said: “On behalf of the Open College Network, I would like to congratulate all our learners across NI who have received their qualification results.

“We must also not forget about the amazing job teachers and tutors have done in supporting our learners to progress, whether that’s into further education or the world of work”, said Martin.  A 10% increase on last year in the numbers of people achieving an OCN qualification is a record worth celebrating, explained Martin.

“Sometimes it feels like those who achieve vocational qualifications can be overlooked, 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 laser focus on a particular month when their achievements are celebrated.  For OCN learners is very much a case of ongoing celebration of achievement throughout the year.

“To everyone who has worked so hard during this academic year, teachers and learners alike, congratulations, very well done and here’s hoping for even better things to come for the remainder of this year and into 2023”, concluded Martin.

For more information visit www.ocnni.org.uk.