Image: Jim Coughlan

Ireland’s Leaving Certificate Class of 2023 is celebrating today as the results for the annual exams have been released. Ministers for Education, Special Education and Inclusion, Sport and Physical Education, and various government officials have extended their warm congratulations to the 61,736 candidates receiving their results.

Beginning from 10 am, the State Examinations Commission (SEC) has issued the Leaving Certificate results to students who participated in the Leaving Certificate Established, Leaving Certificate Applied, and Leaving Certificate Vocational Programmes.

Minister for Education Norma Foley TD expressed her heartfelt congratulations to the students, praising their hard work, dedication, and resilience, especially during challenging times. The Minister said:

“Today brings enormous reward and recognition for all your hard work… I wish you every success and happiness as you embark on the next stage in your life.”

Minister Foley also acknowledged the efforts of teachers, principals, school communities, parents, and guardians in supporting candidates and ensuring the smooth conduct of this year’s exams.

Josepha Madigan TD, Minister of State for Special Education and Inclusion, emphasized that no matter the results, students should feel proud of their accomplishments. She thanked the teachers, SNAs, school staff, and agencies for their support throughout Leaving Certificate 2023.

Minister of State for Sport and Physical Education, Thomas Byrne TD, acknowledged the achievements of the 7,155 students who received results in their Physical Education (PE) examination. He encouraged students to continue embracing the insights and healthy habits gained from PE studies.

To assist students and parents during this transition, various helplines and support services are in place:

• The National Parents and Students Leaving Cert Helpline: This free-phone service, operational from 25 August to 2 September, provides one-to-one support by qualified guidance counsellors. Contact at 1800 265 165.
• State Examinations Commission Candidate Helpline: Available at 1800 111 135 or 1800 111 136, this service assists with queries related to the Candidate Self Service Portal.
• Wellbeing resources: A range of resources is available at gov.ie – Wellbeing support for Leaving Certificate students, parents, and school staff.
• Mental Health Services: HSE/HSE-funded providers are available to support students’ mental health. More information is available from Types of help for mental health – HSE.ie.

Schools have also been encouraged to provide support by allowing students to meet with members of the Student Support Team on results day.

This milestone marks not only the end of one educational journey but the exciting beginning of new paths, be they in further education, apprenticeships, or the workforce. The unified message from ministers and educators alike is one of pride, support, and optimism for the future of Ireland’s youth.