Leaving Certificate is a starting point, not an end

The Leaving Certificate is misnamed. It's not the end, it's only the beginning. This is not a departure point; merely a refuelling stop on a longer journey. For many the journey will be ever upward, a successful Leaving Cert representing the first step on an exciting career path. But for many others, there will be unexpected twists and turns ahead. Long sought-after college courses may turn out to be not what the doctor ordered. Those disappointed with their results may find a chosen path in the world of employment, although, the search for a job may send them far from Ireland's shores. People flourish at various stages of their lives; some may benefit from the freedom a third-level environment provides, away from the rote learning and memorising that characterises the Leaving Cert. Some grow and prosper away from formal education. Some perspective is required on this exam. There are not too many people over 40 who can remember their Leaving Cert grades. The Leaving Certificate is a big deal, but only because our education system deems it to be so. Why should those seeking a career in medicine be required to secure an A1 in Geography or Spanish in order to earn the coveted points to pursue their dream? There's a need for more continuous assessment and a greater focus on lifelong learning.