As the overall number sitting the Leaving Certificate increases to 58,466 in 2016, according to the State Examinations Commission, concern has been raised as the number of those failing ordinary level maths has increased by 6 percent.
Maths is a key requirement for those wanting to enter most third level colleges, and has always been one of those subjects that is closely analysed.
Congratulations to all students receiving Leaving Certificate results today. Whatever the results, focus on the opportunities that await!
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However, while the number of those taking higher level maths has increased since the introduction of the 25 bonus CAO points, more are failing ordinary level.
This year, 15,198 students sat higher level maths - a 1 percent increase on last year’s figures - and the number of those failing decreased from 5 percent to 4.6 percent.
However, while 71 percent of higher level students secured an A, B or C grade, the number of those failing to secure a minimum D grade in ordinary levels maths has risen from 3.2 to 9.2 percent, according to the Irish Times.
No matter what the results, whether you're disappointed or elated, there are options for everyone - @RichardbrutonTD #LeavingCertResults
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3,000 students failed ordinary level maths, meaning they have been locked out of a number of colleges that require a minimum pass grade.
Talking about the maths results to The Journal, Education Minister Richard Bruton said that there were features that “need closer examination”.
"I understand there has been difficulty in some areas… and we may need to look at that,” he said. "The curriculum board will be looking at the whole Maths area this year and we’ll see how we can work on that."
Encouraging students to consider all their options, Richard Bruton said:"As our economy comes out of a very difficult period, many new opportunities have opened up for young people, in the further education and training sector, including traineeships and apprenticeships, as well as in the third level sector."
"This is an important milestone and can be a time of great celebration and indeed relief for students and their families as the results become available. I am happy to see that the results and trends are on a par with previous years".
The results system for the examination is being changed from 14 grades to eight next year, with each grade being worth 10 percent.
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— Richard Bruton (@RichardbrutonTD) August 17, 2016
The Leaving Certificate doesn't define you. It will be ok, whether you did great or are disappointed.
— John Duggan (@jduggantodayfm) August 17, 2016
Best of luck to all those expecting Leaving Certificate results tomorrow locally in #Meath #Westmeath & nationally. pic.twitter.com/HGfo1rIRXn
— Damien English TD (@Damien_English) August 16, 2016
