Ombudsman for Children wishes students luck ahead of exams

The Ombudsman for Children, Dr. Niall Muldoon, has wished all students beginning exams tomorrow the very best of luck, particularly those with learning difficulties who face additional challenges.

“Exams are extremely stressful for everyone and I would like to wish all students starting their exams tomorrow the very best of luck.

“I am particularly mindful of students with learning difficulties who face additional challenges during exam periods. With the right supports, we know that these students can reach their full potential. The RACE scheme administered by the State Examination Commission will this year provide 19,806 reasonable accommodations to facilitate Leaving and Junior Certificate candidates with individual needs and 10,223 special examination centres as a result.

“The Leaving Certificate, and indeed the Junior Certificate, are significant milestones in a young persons’ life but I would encourage all students, as well as their families, teachers and friends to take some time during this busy period to consider their mental well-being.

“Anxiety, depression and stress are common among those sitting exams. Young people feel a huge amount of pressure to do well and they should be reminded that while exams are very important, there will be lots of other opportunities and possibilities.

“I hope everyone sitting the Junior and Leaving Certificate achieve the goals they have set for themselves. All anyone can do is their very best.”

ENDS

Contact:
Aoife Carragher
Communications Manager
Ombudsman for Children’s Office

Notes to Editor

• The Ombudsman for Children’s Office is an independent statutory body with an overall mandate to promote the rights and welfare of children under the age of 18 living in Ireland.
• The Ombudsman for Children’s Office also has the statutory function to encourage public bodies to develop policies, practices and procedures designed to promote the rights and welfare of children.
• The accommodations awarded by the Reasonable Accommodations at Certificate Examinations (RACE) section of the State Examination Commission are intended to help students with special educational needs like dyslexia to demonstrate their ability in state exams without giving them an unfair advantage over other exam candidates.
• This year (2016) the State Examinations Commission will provide 19,806 reasonable accommodations to facilitate candidates with individual needs.

• 7 June 2016
• Type: Press Release
• Topic: Education