‘Leaving Cert exam integrity will be compromised under new arrangements’ – REDC survey of teachers
The majority of second-level teachers believe new Additional Assessment Components in the Leaving Cert - worth a minimum 40% of the overall exam grade in each subject - will create difficulties relating to teachers’ authenticating students’ work, according to a REDC/ ASTI survey conducted in November 2024.
From September 2025 to 2029, new and revised Leaving Cert subject specifications will be introduced as part of the Senior Cycle Redevelopment Programme*. The new subject specifications will include a new Additional Assessment Component (e.g. a project to be submitted by students) worth a minimum 40% of students’ overall Leaving Cert grade.
When asked about new Additional Assessment Components worth a minimum 40% of students’ overall Leaving Cert grade in each subject, most teachers who took part in the REDC/ ASTI survey stated that 40% is excessive. When asked about their concerns they emphasised a number of issues, including the reliability of work attributed to students:
- 88% of all teachers surveyed said the new Leaving Cert AACs will create difficulties in relation to the authentication of students’ work
- 82% said AACs will increase students’ workload
- 70% said AACs will increase stress amongst Leaving Cert students
The REDC/ ASTI survey finds that three out of four teachers whose subject does not currently include an additional exam component** are dissatisfied with the allocation of a minimum of 40% for Additional Assessment Components as part of the Senior Cycle Redevelopment Programme.
Teachers also deem a multitude of resources necessary to support teachers and schools before introducing Additional Assessment Components:
- 82% of all teachers believe guidance on AI is necessary
- 78% believe guidance on authentication of students’ course work is necessary
- 74% said smaller class sizes are necessary
Commenting on the findings of the survey, ASTI President Donal Cremin said:
“Teachers have real and significant concerns about aspects of the Senior Cycle Redevelopment Programme, and in particular the decision to accelerate its implementation amid growing concerns about assessment integrity.
“Teachers are telling us that there is a lack of knowledge and guidance on the use of AI and on the authentication of work submitted by students. These issues must be addressed before new Additional Assessment Components are introduced for the Leaving Cert. More access to IT in classrooms, more supports for students with Special Education Needs and smaller class sizes are also priorities for teachers.
“The survey findings are an alarm bell for the new government and the Minister for Education. Young people get one chance at the Leaving Cert and it is vital that any changes are fit for purpose.”
ENDS
Issued by Gemma Tuffy, Communications Official. Tel: 01/6040172; email: [email protected]
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
*List of Leaving Cert/ Senior Cycle subject specifications being introduced in September 2025 under Tranche 1 of the Senior Cycle Redevelopment Programme
- Arabic
- Classical Languages/Greek and Latin
- Biology
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Business
- Drama, Film and Theatre Studies (new subject)
- Climate Action and Sustainable Development (new subject)
**List of Leaving Cert/ Senior Cycle subjects which do not currently have an additional exam component (e.g. project)
- Accounting
- Biology
- Business
- Physics
- Chemistry
- English
- Mathematics
- Physics and Chemistry
