Testing times: Why have the experts been ignored on movement of Leaving Cert Irish and English?

The proposal to schedule Paper 1 in English and Irish at the end of fifth year was criticised by education groups, who said that it would require a syllabus review, would disadvantage boys, and could exacerbate exam stress.

Leaving Cert students attending the return to school induction day at St Aloysius’ College, Carrigtwohill, Co Cork. Picture: David Keane

In March 2022, Education Minister Norma Foley announced a “reimagined senior cycle” in response to repeated calls for reform of the Leaving Cert. 

The stated tenets of the proposed reform, as set out in the document entitled 'Equity and Excellence for All: Where the Student is at the Centre of Their Senior Cycle Experience' are: