Assessing schools - Why is this information top secret?

THIS week 54,000 students got their Leaving Cert results. On Monday many of those young adults will know if they will be able to enrol in the third-level course of their choice when the first round of CAO offers will be made.

Many others will begin professional training or embark on their chosen careers. All of these teenagers can only select from options defined by their academic success. This definition is no more than a reflection of the students’ academic ability and the degree to which that potential has been realised.

It also reflects the impact the pupils’ teachers and schools have had and whether the educational services provided were adequate.