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Leaving Cert students say it's 'unfair' to leave them in limbo

One sixth year student has criticised a lack of clarity over the State exams. It comes as Educati...
Jack Quann
Jack Quann

17.03 16 Feb 2021


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Leaving Cert students say it's 'unfair' to leave them in limbo


Jack Quann
Jack Quann

17.03 16 Feb 2021


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One sixth year student has criticised a lack of clarity over the State exams.

It comes as Education Minister Norma Foley said she hopes schools will be able to return on a phased basis from March 1st.

She told her Cabinet colleagues earlier on Tuesday that work is underway for a full return to classrooms next month.

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However, the date is yet to be agreed with teachers unions and other stakeholders.

Cathal from Co Kerry told The Hard Shoulder they should not have to wait this long.

"A decision is long overdue at this stage, and it's unfair on students to keep going in limbo."

"We need clarity soon".

He said while his preference is calculated grades, a choice needs to be there for either.

"I think calculated grades would suit a lot of people - that choice should be there for others that wouldn't like to get calculated grades.

"That choice should be there for them to sit the traditional Leaving Cert too".

Cathal said online learning has not been working well for him.

"It is hard, it is difficult to study... and online learning is quite hard for everyone.

"Some people like it, others don't - and coming from myself, I find online learning hard as well so that is a big disadvantage".

He said at this point, any certainty is welcome.

"Students voices deserve to be heard and what we've been calling for is that choice.

"But definitely if we got clarity, it would reduce the stress and unnecessary anxiety that's being faced by sixth year students across the country."

Fellow Leaving Cert student Darragh said it is only fair for them to get a choice the same as last year's class did.

"I think it's only fair after we missed all the time last year, and then missing an unknown amount of time this year that we get a choice as well".

"I'd be sitting a calculated grade, but like Cathal said, I understand that not everyone would like that - so I would rather a calculated grade, but I think we should have the choice for the people who don't want [and] who would rather sit the exam".

He also called for 'allowances' on practical subjects, such as art and construction.

Main image: Students at Dublin's Belvedere College sitting the second day of Leaving Cert exams in 2011. Picture by: Mark Stedman/RollingNews.ie

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Cathal Darragh Leaving Cert Leaving Cert Students Norma Foley School Re-opening The Hard Shoulder

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