Students across County Waterford are in a celebratory mood today as Leaving Certificate results have been received nationwide.
The Education Minister is optimistic the Leaving Cert exams can return to the traditional format next year.
Over 61,000 thousand students have received their results this morning.
The results have hit a record high for the second year in a row, with grade inflation up 2.6 percent this year compared to last.
We caught up with teachers and students across County Waterford - who expressed delight across the board.
Abbey Community College, Ferrybank
There was elation evident at the Abbey Community College this morning, despite students opening their results online as opposed to in school.
School Principal, Michelle Jefford says there's nothing only positivity around today - and the school are extremely proud of the 180 students.
"There's nothing only elation, positivity, and joy around today at Abbey Community College. We're extremely proud of all of our students, the news is getting around and we're absolutely thrilled with everyone."
Kate Sheridan is one of the students who opened her results at 10am, and she's celebrating a wonderful 625 points. Kate was delighted with her results after what has been a difficult year.
"It was definitely a really tough year. I sat six out of my seven subjects, I sat most of the exams - and I found them very tough, but it's definitely worth it in the end when you see the results. I'm quite surprised and can't wait to tell people the news. I'm hoping to do Medical and Health Sciences in UCC."
St. Augustine's College, Dungarvan
130 students received their results at St. Augustine's College in Dungarvan this morning and a delighted principal, Mr. Michael O'Sullivan, was full of praise for the class of 2021.
"You're looking at some students who are just trying to get through and work really hard to get a Leaving Cert and stay in school. We're delighted that everything has worked out. There's a lot of different levels. You want all students to get through. It is relative, somebody can get very points and not be happy, and others can be delighted with achieving their best and that's the main thing."
Frankie De Paor Kavanagh was one of the students who received results, and he was delighted when logging on this morning.
"Last night, I wasn't nervous at all - but when I woke up, butterflies in my stomach. It was the longest 20 minutes ever waiting by the computer. When I opened it up, absolute shock - I got way more points than I thought I would. 554 points, next year I'm hoping to do teaching. I sat them all (the exams) just to give myself the best chance possible, and thankfully it all worked out. I have Mary I down first on the CAO, so hopefully I get in there - we'll see though!
Guidance
Inevitably, some students will be experiencing disappointment today, but help is at hand.
Guidance Counsellor of Waterford College of Further Education, Patricia Walter has this advice for students who might not have achieved what they wanted.
"If you're not happy with your results, get professional advice and contact the Leaving Cert Helpline. That's manned by professional guidance councillors and will remain open until Friday 10th September. That will help you decide the best course of action for you now. The phone number is 1800 265 165."
