“Disgraceful”: Full return of State examinations slammed by parents

"They're very stressed about it"

The Teacher's Union of Ireland believes the State Exams should return to their traditional form this year. In a statement yesterday, the TUI claimed that there is "no justification for offering additional options to students". Students are not only worried about exams, but the fear of catching Covid still weighs heavy on their shoulders. They're also worried about having to isolate, being close contacts, or making loved ones sick. Despite Covid concerns, the TUI believes emergency methods are not needed.

"Memorizing facts and spewing them back out is not learning"

"Our co-operation with these processes was only on the basis of absolute necessity and this remains the case," the TUI stressed. Their comments have been met with uproar from both parents and pupils. HerFamily readers believe reintroducing the traditional exams is putting a "ridiculous pressure" on teenagers. "They should never go back to the way they were there are better ways to do it. Some people do not have the kind of brains that can do exams. Memorizing facts and spewing them back out is not learning. Projects and continuous assessments are better," one mum said. Another added, "It's disgraceful to think the class of 2022 will not be given the same accommodations as last year's class. "This cohort has not been educated in the traditional sense, therefore, should not be examined in the traditional manner. The hybrid model needs to be put in place for these students. "An immediate decision needs to be made to alleviate the stress and anxiety being experienced by many 6th year students."

"Surely the mental health of pupils is far more important than them trying to remember half a dozen Macbeth quotes?"

Another reader said the entire education system in Ireland needs to be updated. "My daughter is in leaving cert & they've all missed so much time this year with close contacts, covid. They're very stressed about it this year actually," another parent shared. Blended learning helped alleviate so much stress for exam year students so why can't things change? Surely the mental health of pupils is far more important than them trying to remember half a dozen Macbeth quotes? Isn't it time for exams to be fairer, less stressful, and more inclusive? Students have pleaded with Minister Norma Foley to consider making these necessary changes. However, she has yet to comment on the matter. The Government must listen to the students who are forced to sit these exams and realise it is time for a change.