Open College Network Northern Ireland (OCN) has awarded more than 60,000 vocational and professional qualifications during the 2025/26 academic year, reinforcing the growing importance of vocational learning as thousands of learners across Northern Ireland receive their examination and qualification results this August.
As students across Northern Ireland receive results for GCSEs, AS Levels and A Levels, OCN is also congratulating vocational qualification learners and the education and training providers who have supported them on their achievements and success.
The awarding of thousands of OCN qualifications alongside GCSE and A Level results represents another important step towards greater recognition and parity of esteem for vocational and academic pathways, ensuring all learners can be recognised and celebrated for their achievements.
Martin Flynn, Chief Executive Officer of OCN, said:
"I would like to congratulate every learner receiving results this summer, whether you have completed a vocational qualification, GCSE, AS Level or A Level course of study. You should be immensely proud of what you have achieved.
Reaching the milestone of more than 60,000 qualifications awarded during the 2025/26 academic year reflects not only the dedication and determination of learners, but also the commitment and support provided by education and training organisations across Northern Ireland.
Today's education landscape offers more opportunities than ever before. Whether progressing to university, further education, an apprenticeship, traineeship or employment, there are many routes to success. No two learner journeys are the same, and every pathway deserves equal recognition and respect.
We are proud to support learners as they take their next steps and continue their learning journey."
Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald said:
"Congratulations to all learners receiving their results. I commend OCN on the significant achievement of awarding more than 60,000 qualifications this academic year.
Vocational and professional qualifications play a vital role in developing the skills our economy needs, creating pathways into employment, apprenticeships, further and higher education, and supporting economic growth across the north.”
As Northern Ireland's leading vocational and professional awarding organisation, OCN remains committed to its mission of developing and awarding qualifications that engage, enrich and equip learners for life. The organisation works with schools, further education colleges, community organisations and training providers across Northern Ireland, offering more than 500 qualifications across a broad range of sectors.
The milestone comes following OCN's 30th anniversary year, marking three decades of supporting learners, educators, communities and employers through accessible, high-quality vocational qualifications. For 30 years, OCN has championed vocational learning and celebrated the achievements of thousands of learners whose determination and perseverance have helped them unlock new opportunities.
OCN qualifications span a wide range of subject areas including Business Administration, Hospitality and Tourism, Health and Social Care, Information Technology, Construction and Creative Industries, helping learners develop practical, industry-relevant skills that support progression into further learning and employment.
As learners celebrate their achievements and consider their next steps, OCN remains committed to ensuring that everyone has access to high-quality qualifications and learning opportunities that enable them to succeed through the pathway that is right for them.
