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Students begin Leaving and Junior Certificate exams

Around 124,000 students are beginning their Leaving and Junior Certificate exams on Wednesday. En...
Jack Quann
Jack Quann

07.05 5 Jun 2019


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Students begin Leaving and Jun...

Students begin Leaving and Junior Certificate exams

Jack Quann
Jack Quann

07.05 5 Jun 2019


Share this article


Around 124,000 students are beginning their Leaving and Junior Certificate exams on Wednesday.

English and CSPE are first up at Junior cycle, while Leaving Cert students will take English Paper 1 - along with Home Economics.

They are being reminded to stay calm, and remember that there are several options available to them.

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ASTI President Breda Lynch has urged students to maintain perspective over the coming weeks.

She said: "While exams are important they are only one aspect of your education.

"You have already achieved so much during your time as a second-level student.

"Most importantly, your experiences and efforts have helped you to develop as an individual and as a member of society.

"Your goal now should be to look after yourself over the coming weeks ensuring all the hard work pays off."

She added: "Eat well, get plenty of rest, take exercise, build in relaxation time, organise yourself so that you have everything you need for each exam.

"Be familiar with your timetable for each day and allow plenty of time to get to the exam.

"I would advise that after each exam, you look ahead to the next one. Avoid post-mortems and the inevitable social media hype."

While the Irish Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (IACP) is reminding students to be mindful of their stress levels.

A recent nationwide survey, carried out by Behaviour & Attitudes on behalf of the IACP, found that exams are the number one cause of stress for those under the age of 25, mentioned by 48% of all surveyed.

Ray Henry, counsellor and chair at IACP, said: "The pressure surrounding exams can be extremely anxiety inducing for young people.

"It can be a contributing factor in mental health issues amongst student".

"I'd advise young people to remain positive.

"Parents need to be supportive to their children and help them develop a skillset to cope with stress.

"Take time to listen to them and allow them a safe space to express their uncertainty and fears".

Five tips to manage anxiety are:

  • Sleep at least eight hours a night
  • Eat well and avoid caffeine
  • Create a study plan
  • Find a quiet place
  • De-stress

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ASTI President Advice Breda Lynch IACP Irish Association For Counselling And Psychotherapy Junior Cert Leaving Cert Leaving Certificate Ray Henry Stress

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