Leaving Cert English Exam: Students Share Their First Reactions

Leaving Cert English Exam: Students React The Leaving Certificate English Paper 1 exam took place on June 4th, 2025, marking a significant milestone for students across Ireland. Outside St. Brendan’s Community School in County Offaly, RTÉ News gathered immediate reactions from students as they emerged from the exam hall. The mood was generally positive, with many expressing relief and satisfaction. "Really good," one student exclaimed, reflecting the overall upbeat sentiment. Another student offered a more nuanced perspective, stating, "It wasn't too bad. The preparation I did kind of paid off." This highlights the varied experiences and levels of preparedness among students. A third student shared their essay topic, revealing insights into the exam's content. They described writing about a school hurling team and the captain's efforts to rally the team. This anecdote provides a tangible example of the creative writing prompts and the themes explored by students. The diverse reactions underscore the individual challenges and successes experienced during the exam. The overall positive atmosphere suggests that many students felt adequately prepared and confident in their performance.