Ciara Smith grew up on a farm in Wilkinstown, Co Meath, and from an early age, knew she wanted to continue the family tradition of farming. So it was no surprise when she opted for a degree programme in agriculture after finishing St Joseph’s Mercy Secondary School, in Navan, Co Meath.
As Leaving Cert students enter into this very important and busy term of sixth year, managing workload is key to success. Teachers are working hard to ensure that the entire course is completed in a timely manner, and putting pressure on students to get through the last remaining topics.
The Leaving Cert year can be hectic for students but it’s no walk in the park for parents either. There will, of course, be some students who are clear about their CAO choices and even their future careers. But in my experience, certainty is for the few and CAO decisions don’t always come neatly packaged.
Support for accessing third-level education is essential for many students. The main schemes for young people experiencing challenges are Hear and Dare.
It is one of Ireland’s most affordable fee-paying schools where the majority of students progress to college – but the principal says it would be a plus to see more partake in apprenticeships.