Local pupils achieving A* and A grades are also up from last year, by 0.5 percent to 29.1 per cent, with 9.3 percent achieving an A*, up from nine percent in 2015.
“These results are more good news for students in Northern Ireland and are testament to the high standard of teaching in our local schools,” said East Belfast MLA Mr Lyttle.
“Regardless of their results, all young people should be proud of the work they have put into their studies to reach this point.
“Today is the end of an era for many students, as they leave school education to take up employment or move on to vocational training, while many others embark on the next stage of their academic studies. While results are important, today is only the next step on a longer journey.
“I would encourage anyone who needs assistance in making choices about their next step to use the professional services available to receive the best advice on the various ways forward for their individual circumstances.”