Secondary school children have been encouraged to consider taking their studies beyond the Leaving Certificate.

According to John Walshe, writing for the Irish Independent, the significance of the final exams and finishing secondary school education is not as great as it used to be.

He stated that nowadays more value is being placed on further education.

"Higher qualifications are becoming even more important to secure a foothold in the labour market," Mr Walshe said.

Despite finishing secondary school being a "milestone" for children, he encouraged them to develop their studies because when they finish their university courses the economy will have improved.

He stated: "The future belongs to those with qualifications."

Mr Walshe claimed that by 2015, 46 per cent of those in jobs will be qualified up to doctorate levels, while only 19 per cent will have just lower qualifications.

Last week, 58,000 pupils received their Leaving Certificate results, revealing that basic subjects such as maths are being neglected after 4,000 students failed the subject.

Written by Donal Walsh  

Comments