PICTURES Excitement as Dundalk students receive Leaving Cert results

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There were scenes of excitement, relief, and celebration across Dundalk last Friday as hundreds of local students received their Leaving Certificate results. Friends, families, and teachers gathered to share in the milestone moment, which marks the end of years of hard work and dedication in the classroom. 

Reflecting on the results, Acting Principal at De La Salle, Paul Breen said: "A number of the boys achieved over 500 points, with two of the group receiving 625 points. The school is extremely lucky to have such an invested and positive community." 

For many, the results open the door to the next chapter of their lives whether that's college, apprenticeships, further training, or entering the world of work. Teachers and principals praised the resilience and determination shown by this year's cohort, who completed much of their studies under the shadow of pandemic disruptions and changing exam formats. 

Students who received their results on Friday saw a "small decrease" in grade inflation, according to the Minister for Education. 

Helen McEntee said that results will return to pre-pandemic levels over the coming years, with as little impact on students as possible. 

This year saw a slight drop in Leaving Cert results after grade inflation was introduced during the pandemic. 

The number of students awarded top grades has dropped, with the proportion of H1s and O1s achieved falling by 2.6% and 2.1%. 

The number of H1s in maths fell to 11%, while the number of students achieving a H1 in Irish fell to 11% compared to 14% last year. 

This year, some 5% of students achieved the higher level H1 in English, compared to almost 7% last year. 

At schools across the town there was a mix of nerves and joy as envelopes were opened, and online portals checked. Local guidance counsellors have reminded students that support is available as they consider their next steps, particularly with the CAO offers and further education opportunities just around the corner. 

Our Photographer Arthur Kinahan was at the De La Salle, Coláiste Ris, St Mary's College, St Vincent's and St Louis to capture the milestone moment.