Very few, sadly, can make a full-time career as a sportsman or woman, so performing to the best of one’s ability in the Leaving Cert moves centre stage. But, in another sense, the mocks are hugely relevant as a learning experience for him and all others taking the Leaving Cert this year. You point out in your question that your son now realises the level of unpreparedness for the actual Leaving Cert exams in June. [ Here’s a study guide for the final months before the Leaving Cert examsOpens in new window ]If any student is disappointed by their mock results, don’t panic and make hasty decisions. As a parent, don’t panic: be assured, his mocks are the wake-up call he needs.

Source: The Irish Times February 10, 2026 13:32 UTC