Overhaul will benefit students, says union

PROPOSED reforms of the college entry points system should bring major benefits for second-level students, the Teachers’ Union of Ireland (TUI) has claimed.

Education Minister Ruairi Quinn has backed the recommendations of the Higher Education Authority (HEA) and the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment, which are aimed at removing the pressure on students to get top Leaving Certificate grades for college courses.

However, the plans may involve fewer grade divisions as well as a narrower choice of first-year courses for college applicants.