-TCI celebrates outstanding CPEA results

BY Olivia Rose

The Ministry of Education has announced the exceptional results of the 2025 Caribbean Primary Exit Assessment (CPEA), which saw an impressive 97% of the 430 candidates achieving grades at or above the Near Competent level (41% and above).
At the pinnacle of this year’s academic success stands Sydney Kay Brisbane of B.E.S.T. Institute, who not only secured the coveted first position nationally but also set an inspiring benchmark for academic excellence.
Sydney’s remarkable achievement—an outstanding 96.4% and a total of 482 marks—solidifies her position as the undisputed top student in the Turks and Caicos Islands for the 2025 CPEA.

Close behind was Arianna Shalini Daniel of RHP, who claimed second place with 94.4%, followed by Darnique Dorvette Handfield of AOPS with 94.0%. The male contingent also performed strongly, with Erion Elrico Choy Stoll and Dominick Glenroy Gardiner, both from OGPS, tying for fourth and fifth places respectively, along with Lebron Wolf Sertune of B.E.S.T.

Beyond the overall rankings, Sydney Kay Brisbane demonstrated exceptional consistency, earning the top spot in three out of the four core subjects: Mathematics (97.5%), Language (96.43%), and Science (96.67%). In Social Studies, Darnique Handfield of Adelaide Omeler Primary School and Erion Elrico Choy Stoll of Ona Glinton Primary School both achieved the highest score of 98.3%.

The CPEA, administered by the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC), is a pivotal evaluation of student achievement in Mathematics, English Language, Science, and Social Studies, marking a major academic milestone for primary school graduates.

The Honourable Rachel Marshall Taylor, Minister of Education, Youth, Sport and Culture, expressed immense pride in the students’ accomplishments. “We are indeed proud of our students’ outstanding performance in the 2025 Caribbean Primary Exit Assessment,” stated Minister Taylor. “These results reflect the dedication of our educators, the supportive involvement of parents, and the hard work and perseverance of our children. We remain committed to providing a quality education that empowers every learner to thrive.”

Key performance highlights from this year’s assessment underscore the overall success. A significant 65% (279 candidates) attained either Competent or Advanced Competent status, with 14% (60 students) reaching Advanced Competence, representing a one per cent increase over 2024.

While Language (88%), Civic (82%), and Science (79%) demonstrated strong performance with over 50% of students scoring above this threshold, Mathematics remains an area for continued growth, with 61% of students scoring 50% or above. Gender differences were observed across all levels, with a slight female lead in the Competent to Advanced Competent bands, though this lead has decreased compared to 2024.

The Ministry of Education emphasised its commitment to a holistic educational approach. “Our focus is on holistic education, ensuring that each student excels academically while also developing critical thinking skills, creativity, and social responsibility,” the Ministry stated. “The 2025 results are not just about academic success but also about the overall growth and development of our boys and girls.”

• To commemorate these achievements, CPEA Prize-Giving Ceremonies will be held across the country, commencing on Monday, 30th June 2025, under the inspiring theme “Strong Foundations, Limitless Futures.” The schedule is as follows:
• Monday, 30th June 2025 – 10:00 a.m. at the Yellowman & Sons Auditorium, Grand Turk
• Tuesday, 1st July 2025 – 10:00 a.m. at the Mt Olivet Baptist Church, South Caicos
• Wednesday, 2nd July 2025 – 10:00 a.m. at the Horse Stable Beach Community Centre, North & Middle Caicos
• Thursday, 3rd July 2025 – 10:00 a.m. at the Gustarvus Lightbourne Sports Complex, Providenciales

The Ministry extended its gratitude to all stakeholders for their integral role in this success. “The Ministry commends all school leaders, teachers, parents, and communities who understand the value of strong partnerships and the critical importance of collaboration,” the statement read. “We remain committed to our mission to create an environment where each learner is successful.”