Surge in numbers taking higher maths and Irish

Nearly half of all Junior Certificate students took higher-level maths this year and changes to the marking scheme have prompted another rise in numbers attempting higher Irish.

State Examinations Commission figures show that 48% sat higher-level maths, the highest since at least 2001. Although the SEC did not have earlier records yesterday, it could the first time higher-level candidates outnumber those who took ordinary-level exams, with just 7% sitting foundation level.

The new Project Maths syllabus was not being examined, except at 24 schools piloting the course, where students sat two entirely different papers, but its roll-out was cited by the SEC as an influence.