Pupils starting second level in 2014 will sit Junior Cycle Student Award

Students starting second level in September will be the first to sit the Junior Cycle Student Award, the new name for the qualification to replace the Junior Certificate.

Education Minister Ruairi Quinn revealed the change to the JCSA as he faces challenges from teachers and school managers over difficulties implementing the changes. The new system — with more marks for coursework and students to be assessed by their own teachers — is being introduced on a phased basis. However, the Department of Education confirmed the next intake of first-years will study for the JCSA rather than the Junior Certificate. They will receive the qualification at the end of the three-year junior cycle in 2017.