1,000 Offaly students to get Leaving Cert results today

Just over 1,000 students who sat Leaving Cert exams in Offaly earlier this summer will find out the results of their efforts today.

Speaking today (Wednesday) Minister for Education and Skills Jan O’Sullivan congratulated the 56,990 Leaving Certificate students countrywide who are getting results and said every student should be proud of their achievement.

“Students now have the opportunity to choose which path they want to take next,” she said. “There are a wide range of opportunities available in higher education, further education and in many other fields. It is an exciting time for young people and I would urge them to consider their options carefully and give 100% to whatever path they choose to follow next.”

Irish Second-Level Students’ Union president Craig McHugh also congratulated those getting results today, but said it’s important not to focus just on the results envelope.

“Regardless of what results lie in that envelope, remember all the dedication and hard work you put in, and that is what really counts,” he said. “The assessment methods in the Leaving Cert may not be tailored or suited to your best skill set, and if you are left in any way disappointed by your results, there are many ways into nearly every career path and now you can take your first steps.”

HeadsUp is reminding students to stay calm today, and remember that exams are only one element in pursuing a particular career. It will host an interactive webcast on life after secondary school on Friday for those looking for advice following today’s results. Its website - www.headsup.ie - also has advice and tips on how to manage anxiety and stress.

The National Parents’ Council Post Primary exam helpline, sponsored by eircom, opens at 10am today meanwhile. The 1800 265 165 number that gives students access to advice, information and support will take calls today until 7pm, tomorrow from 10am until 7pm, Friday from 10am until 1pm, next Monday and Tuesday from 8am until 7pm and finally next Wednesday from 8am until 1pm.

Alcohol Action Ireland meanwhile is calling on pubs and nightclubs not to use cheap alcohol promotions to target young people planning on celebrating their results this week.