Remember that feeling - waking up to the anticipation of receiving those results you had worked so hard for?
This morning, over 58 thousand students received their Leaving Certificate results. This is the first year of the new system that does away with the lettered grades. That means no more As, Bs or Cs. Instead, there is a common points system with a specific 108 scale for Higher and Ordinary levels.
In addition, students who get a H7 grade, which would have been an E in the old system, will pass this year. The old system meant if you got an E you failed and got no points.
This year, 58,465 people took their Leaving Certificate and there has been a notable rise in those students opting for the higher options. The Irish Independent reports that a record 13 pupils achieved eight H1's - almost double last year's seven. There were also 63 students who got 7 H1's - a rise from 47 last year.
This rise in the number of candidates achieving at the highest level could put pressure on points for high demand courses via the CAO. The changes in the grading system are also expected to lead to an increase in applications to view exam scripts.
The Education Minister, Richard Bruton, this morning congratulated students on completing their examination.
“Today is a watershed moment for the class of 2017 as their school lives draw to a close."
Aodhán Ó Ríordáin, Irish Labour Party Senator, tweeted his support this morning for all those receiving results.
Didn't get top 3 choices.
— Aodhán Ó Ríordáin (@AodhanORiordain) August 15, 2017
Got there long way around. Principal, Cllr, TD, Minister & Senator.
Still learning.#nowrongpath #leavingcert https://t.co/1HgKqyYd5c
If students are not happy with their results and want to appeal, they can submit an application with the deadline of Wednesday 6 September.
A helpline will be operating from early today by the National Parents’ Council (Post-Primary) on 1800 265 165.
