Dungannon pupil achieves first ever perfect score in transfer test

Maya Davidson (11), a pupil of Howard Primary School, attained a perfect 64 out of 64 on all papers.

The AQE confirmed that she was the first child to get 100% across the board and had come top of the 7,772 youngsters who sat the exams this year.

It was the first time there was a perfect score in the tests - an unofficial replacement to the 11-Plus, which was abolished by former Sinn Fein Education Minister Caitriona Ruane.

Pupils sit three papers under the AQE test system. The best two results are used to come up with a final grade, allowing for one poorer performance. Maya’s perfect score gave her another reason to celebrate after she secured a place at her preferred post-primary - the Royal School Dungannon. Her father, John, said he and his wife, Elaine, were overjoyed with the news.

“We’re always so proud of our daughter and we are delighted in particular with her excellent and well-deserved result,” Mr Davidson said.

As well as her academic excellence, Maya has other impressive strings to her bow, including a love of music, sport and writing. She is also a Girl Guide.

She also recently won a silver medal representing Dungannon Junior Hockey Club at the annual Ballymena Junior Hockey Tournament.

Peter McIlwaine, Maya’s teacher and vice-principal of the Howard Primary School, praised the high achiever. “Her excellent academic results highlight her tremendous ability and conscientious attitude to her studies,” he said. “Maya is a dedicated student with a thirst for knowledge.” Dr David Burnett, headmaster of the Royal School Dungannon, also commended her.“Congratulations to Maya on a wonderful achievement of scoring full marks in her three transfer tests,” he said.