Leaving Cert 2020: Killarney students give their thoughts

Craig McKenzie Vass, St Brendan’s College

“No, I don’t agree with the decision, but I also understand that there were very few options that they had to choose from and, in my opinion, I believe that this was the best option they had. It was a Cornelian dilemma.

“It is unfair, but it is unfair to all of us and places us all in the same position.

“I am still quite nervous about it. It being postponed to a later date doesn’t change that, it just drags out the whole process: raising more questions about college starting times, when we will get our results, etcetera. Through this, I am trying my best to remain positive and maintain the study routine I have in place.”

Aoife Cronin, St Brigid’s

“TO be honest, I was disappointed, but I know that there is no other alternative.

“Many things have been left up the in air, which is also irritating as it feels like I am studying for an exam that might not happen even in July or August

“It is completely understandable that the Department of Education want the leaving cert to go ahead, and that they believe it’s fair to treat this Leaving Cert year like any other. Predicted grading would never have worked due to bias, etcetera, and I know that there isn’t much else they can do.

“I am very unsure about how the exam will go for me. I find it hard to study at home and to teach myself, so I am not really feeling confident about it.”

Michael Horgan, St Brendan’s College

“NO I’m not happy with the minister’s decision postponing the date of the Leaving Cert exams, but there wasn’t any other option as nobody knows how long this pandemic will last.

“Personally I do not think the Minister of Education was left with much of a choice as predicted grades would not have reflected students’ abilities.

“I am not one bit confident regarding the Leaving Cert. It has made studying very difficult, and continuing learning online is very difficult.”

Saoirse Bennett, St Brigid’s

“OBVIOUSLY it isn’t ideal, but I think it was the only option given the exam had to go ahead one way or another, and for those who have worked really hard, it would have been more disappointing to cancel it after all their efforts.

“I agree with the decision. Given our system of education I think it was the only option.

“I am feeling okay and I hope to make good use out of the extra time we have been allotted. I hope it’ll be onwards and upwards!”