‘The world is your oyster' – Education Minister tells Leaving Cert students there are many routes to success

Students receiving their Leaving Certificate results this morning were urged by the Education Minister to consider all career pathways available to them. Education and Youth Minister, and Galway West TD, Hildegarde Naughton returned to her old stomping grounds at Calasanctius College in Oranmore to hand results to students on what is a milestone day in their educational journey. Around half a dozen students were present to receive their envelopes by the Minister where she, years ago, received the news of her own results. Two students share exciting news as they open their results at Calasanctius College in Oranmore, Co Galway. Minister Naughton took time to thank the students and teachers for all their hard work, noting how the class of 2026 began their secondary school journey during the Covid-19 pandemic. 'I think it's important to remember that this cohort of Leaving Cert students started 1st Year in 2020. They were wearing masks, they were part of a bubble, so this has been an unprecedented journey for them, and I'd like to wish them well over the next few days,' she said. Read more Students set to begin receiving Leaving Cert 2026 exam results across the country Reflecting on her own career, Minister Naughton said she 'travelled the scenic route' professionally and encouraged students to do the same. 'I know the anxiety and the nerves that were there, but little did I know, when I was receiving my results, that I would be standing here back in my old school as a Minister for Education. I think it really exemplifies the opportunities that are there for young people and the increased number of pathways. Education Minister, and Galway West TD, Hildegarde Naughton 'The world is your oyster, and it's hard to comprehend that when you're getting your results.' 'If you didn't get what you wanted, know that there are so many other routes to get there,' she added, encouraging parents to contact the National Parents and Students Leaving Certificate Helpline with any queries via phone or text. When asked about the annual decrease in grade inflation in place from Covid-19, Minister Naughton said: 'There has always been a recognition that we need to get back to a normal (level).' The 'gradual process' of bringing those percentage increases down is on track for the 2028 cycle. Students from Calasanctius College in Oranmore, Co Galway with Education Minister Hildegarde Naughton. The Minister will travel to Lakeview Special School as well to celebrate with Level 1 and 2 students who, for the first time, will be receiving their Leaving Certs with their peers. Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting scheme.