Students urged to collect exam results in person

EDUCATION Minister Mary Hanafin has advised students to avail of the support of teachers by collecting their Leaving Certificate results at school today.

Although growing numbers obtain their grades through the State Examinations Commission (SEC) website each year, the minister said the internet can be a lonely place for students.

“Go down to the school if you can at all. The principal will, or other teachers will, be there to celebrate with you or support you and give you guidance,” she said.

“Everybody should be really proud of what they have achieved and know that it’s only the first step. There are plenty of people there to support and advise you,” Ms Hanafin said.

Around 21,000 students collected their Leaving Certificate results online last year and the SEC expects similar volumes of traffic on its website (www.examinations.ie) once the service becomes active at midday.

The SEC phone lines (1530-719290 or 00-353-1-2589001 from overseas) will also give results to candidates who have their exam and PIN numbers at hand, but the services are not intended to replace the help and advice provided by schools.

Teachers’ Union of Ireland (TUI) president Tim O’Meara paid particular tribute to mature and international students getting their results, many of whom have overcome extraordinary obstacles to reach this milestone. He also urged students to celebrate enthusiastically but sensibly.

“Over-indulgence in alcohol and misuse of drugs diminish enjoyment and, far too often, lead to tragedy,” he said.

The Joint Managerial Body (JMB), representing the boards of 400 voluntary secondary schools, said those who are disappointed with their results should realise there are many alternative routes to achieve their ambitions and should seek the advice of families, schools and other support agencies in coming to a decision.

JMB general secretary Ferdia Kelly said: “The achievement of this year’s Leaving Certificate students is even more remarkable when one reflects on the areas in our education system which require an input of resources.

“It is vital that at a time when the national coffers are in such a healthy state, that education is treated as a priority when it comes to the distribution of resources.”

* The National Parents Council (Post-Primary) helpline is open from 8am today at 1800-265165, offering advice from members of the Institute of Guidance Counsellors.