Three students have attained perfect scores in this year’s Secondary Entrance Assessment.
Minister of Education Dr Michael Dowlath confirmed the results as he announced the nation’s top nine performers during a recognition ceremony on Friday, where six boys and three girls were honoured.
“Three students achieved in this list, we are not going to tell you who they are, a perfect score of 100% in the 2026 Secondary Entrance Assessment.”
He said the final rankings will only be confirmed following a review process, but described the results as evidence that the education system is moving in the right direction.
“The highest composite standard score recorded, and that’s the maximum score that you could make in the 2026 SEA school entrance assessment, was 253.423, and what is truly remarkable of our young achievers is that three students made that maximum score.”
Minister Dowlath said national performance improved across all major subject areas.
“In Mathematics, in 2025, the mean score was 52.10. In 2026, the mean score increased to 53.84. In English Language, the national mean score rose from 66.70 to 68.66. In English Language Arts Writing, the national mean score improved from 11.25 to 11.57.”
Dr Dowlath attributed the improvements to targeted interventions at priority primary schools, expanded learning resources and greater support for teachers and students.
Chief Education Officer Dr Peter Smith reminded students that while SEA is an important milestone, it does not define their future.
“The SEA is an important milestone, but it’s not the measure of your worth or the limit of your potential. It is simply one step along a much greater journey of learning, growth, and achievement.”
Acting Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Education, Mrs Simone Williams, emphasised that every student’s educational journey is unique.
“Success takes many forms, and every child who approached this examination with determination has taken an important step forward. Today’s awardees remind us of what is possible when talent is matched by commitment, support, and opportunity.”
Meanwhile in Tobago, the Division of Education, Skills and Innovation revealed that Tobago’s top student attended the Signal Hill Government Primary School.
In a message via social media, Secretary Orlando Kerr congratulated all students who wrote the 2026 Secondary Entrance Assessment noting that this year’s results reflected the hard work, perseverance and determination of students, the unwavering support of parents and guardians, and the dedication of teachers and school communities.