1 February 2022
Suzanne Connolly, Barnardos CEO said: “We are extremely disappointed with the Government’s decision to proceed with a solely exam based Leaving Cert this year. No doubt, this sentiment is shared by the vast majority of Leaving Cert students who favoured and openly called for a hybrid approach.
The pandemic has caused huge disruption to students learning and education, and also impacted on their mental health. The offer of a choice alleviated this stress and gave them some degree of control.
In ordinary years, Leaving Cert exams place students under significant pressure. At a time when anxiety and mental health issues have increased substantially among young people we should be looking for ways to reduce it, not heighten it further.
The decision taken today sends a message to young people that insufficient consideration was given to the voices and views of young people.
As we move on from this pandemic, it is imperative that the Government improves how it listens to the voice of children and young people, and acts on their views and opinions, as well as their best interests. It must be at the heart of any future reforms to the Leaving Cert.”
ENDS
For further information, please contact:
Barnardos press office: 01 7080442
[email protected]