The Association of Secondary Teachers of Ireland (ASTI ) has extended congratulations to the Leaving Cert class of 2010.
“Teachers are proud of all their students and know that for some students obtaining passes is as significant – and deserves just as much praise - as others obtaining honours,” said ASTI president Jack Keane. “Each and every student has a unique set of skills, abilities, talents and experiences to take with them as they progress to the next stage of their lives.”
Mr Keane advised students to take their time exploring their options over the coming days. “It is vital that students keep a level head and explore all the options carefully so that they can make a considered and wise choice about their future.”
Mr Keane also paid tribute to all of the second-level teachers who are committed to delivering a holistic education to young people. “Teachers and schools continue to challenge a narrow points-focused view of education which is promoted through the likes of college entry tables,” he said. “Despite pressure on schools, teachers and students to concentrate only on exams, recent research carried out by the ASTI found teachers strongly committed to providing a diverse range of extra-curricular activities for their students. The benefits of these activities for students include a smoother transition from primary to second-level school and improved mental health. These outcomes are not as easily measured as exam results, but they are vital to the future life chances of young people and to the future of society as a whole.”
Finally, Mr Keane referred to the current economic crisis: “Our school leavers and young people must not be the casualties of years of financial mismanagement by banks and the Government. Looking after young people by investing in education is vital to economic recovery.”
