‘You are more than your Leaving Cert results’ 

National mental health charity Turn2Me is encouraging families to focus on the wide variety of options available to students, even if they don’t get the points they expected.

“There are so many routes into fulfilling careers and opportunities, and no single exam defines your worth, your intelligence, or your potential,” said CEO of Turn2Me Fiona O’Malley.

“We would encourage parents to be supportive, positive, and open-minded about the choices ahead.”

Turn2Me shared five practical options for students who may not receive the points they hoped for. The first option is to consider a conversion course. Universities offer many conversion opportunities that open alternative doors into the same careers.

Secondly, students can opt to do an apprenticeship or learn a trade. Apprenticeships provide hands-on experience while earning a salary, and many trades are very well paid in today’s economy.

Students can also pursue a Post-Leaving Certificate Course (PLC), which allows them to gain qualifications and experience, often with direct progression routes into higher education.

Many students are also now exploring higher education options outside Ireland. Courses abroad, whether in the UK, across Europe, or further afield, can often be easier to access than their Irish equivalents. Studying abroad also gives students international experience and perspective, which is highly valued by employers.

Finally, remember that career paths aren’t always linear and that it’s normal for people to have multiple careers across different sectors. Skills are transferable, and careers evolve over time. There are many evening courses available to people too, if they choose a career and don’t like it, they can always retrain.

“Parents play a huge role in how young people process their results. By staying calm, positive, and encouraging, parents can help their children see the bigger picture. There are always options and opportunities ahead. A set of results doesn’t limit your life; it’s just one step on your journey,” Ms O’Malley advised.

Turn2Me is offering up to six free, professional online counselling and support groups for students and parents who may be feeling overwhelmed during results week.

For more information or to access free mental health support, visit www.turn2me.ie