TEACHERS LEAVING CERT REFORM LUNCHTIME PROTEST IN CARRICKMACROSS

Louis Secondary School held a lunchtime protest as part of their union’s campaign for proper reform of the Leaving Cert. Teachers’ concerns include a lack of adequate facilities and resources for schools, which will lead to inequities when revised Leaving Cert subjects are introduced from September 2025. Teachers are calling for a delay in the implementation of the Senior Cycle redevelopment programme so that these serious issues can be addressed. Service to students was not affected by the protest, which took place outside all schools/centres where Senior Cycle is delivered throughout the country.

Teachers are not opposed to the redevelopment of the Senior Cycle. However, for successful implementation, it is crucial that: 1) Sufficient resources are provided to ensure a smooth and effective roll-out. Such resources must be allocated equitably across all schools/centres; 2) Any changes to subjects/specifications are not rushed through, are of educational benefit to our students and are based on the professional views of those practitioners tasked with delivery and 3) Comprehensive and fully informed in-service training is provided to all teachers well in advance of implementation.

School Steward Noel Hogan told The Northern Standard on Tuesday: “We are pleased to stand in solidarity with our colleagues up and down the country who are holding the line for a better Leaving Cert for all. If Norma Foley is serious about reforming…