Special guest at the prize day was Mr Will Haire, Permanent Secretary, Department of Education.

During the prize-giving ceremony, Dr Scott said she believed that the aims of education must enable our young people to develop a sense of self-worth, a clear identity, skills for living and the ability to enjoy fulfilling relationships.

"At this school our pupils are being taught better, educated to a higher standard than ever before – and achieving better results as a consequence," Dr Scott said.

She added: "Our task is to ensure that no pupil, whether their skills strength is academic or vocational, leaves school without core skills in literacy, numeracy as well as ICT and strong communication, inter-personal and leadership skills.

"The delivery of this education requires dedicated teachers and support staff, and investment from the Department of Education."

Dr Scott also spoke of the advantages of Crumlin Integrated College being part of the Antrim Learning Community, which also comprises Antrim Grammar School, St Benedict’s College, Parkhall College, Riverside Special School, Northern Regional College and Greenmount Campus of CAFRE.