Congratulations To Students On Leaving Cert Results

I would like to congratulate the 57,929 Leaving Certificate students across the country receiving their results today. 

The statistics released this morning by the State Exams Commission show Leaving Cert students as a whole did well this year and the results are similar to those of last year. I welcome the increase in the percentage of students taking biology, chemistry and physics this year. 

As students collect their results this morning it is important to note that help is available to them for any query they may have over the coming days. The National Parents Council Post Primary has provided a Freephone helpline which will be open Wednesday and Thursday from 10am to 7pm and Friday from 10am to 1pm. The helpline is staffed by experienced guidance counsellors and will be open to provide advice and support until Wednesday, 19th August. 

I would urge students to think carefully about their future on receipt of these results. It is important to research all options before the first round of CAO offers next week. 

As a mother of a daughter receiving her Leaving Cert results today I understand that this is a stressful time for young people and their families. I would like to acknowledge the encouragement and support of parents and teachers who have aided students in reaching this point and will continue to provide much needed support in the coming days. 

Many students will look to celebrate their achievements over the coming days and I would urge them to do so wisely. For the students who may not have achieved the results they had hoped for I would encourage these students to look at all of their options and know that help is available to them. It is important to remember that there are many different pathways into desired courses.  I would like to congratulate Leaving Certificate students today and wish them every success in whatever path they choose next.