Athlone's Natasya celebrates a perfect Junior Cert!

Junior Certificate results were handed out later than usual this year, but for Cornafulla's Natasya Barry the wait was worth it as she achieved a perfect result in the exams!

Natasya attends Athlone Community College and is now in Transition Year. 

She achieved the top result in her school, earning the highest achievable grade in English, Maths, Irish, Geography, German, Business, Home Economics, History, and CSPE (Science and Civic, Social and Political Education).

Under the new grading system used as part of the junior cycle reforms, she earned a 'Distinction' in English, Business, and Science, and 'A' grades in her other seven subjects.

"We are so thrilled for her," said Natasya's mother, Amy.

The 15-year-old is gifted in sport as well as academics, and she received a Westmeath Independent Sports Star award in 2016 for representing Ireland in table tennis.

She extended her appreciation and thanks to the teachers and principal of Athlone Community College, and also thanked Joan Conway, of her former school Cornafulla NS, for her guidance and motivational advice.

She also thanked her parents, Michael and Amy, and her elder sister, Yasmine, for their continuous support.

Junior Cert results have traditionally been handed out in September, but this year they were issued on Friday last (October 4). 

The delay was due to appeals over Leaving Cert results being prioritised by the Athlone-based State Examinations Commission.