Advice: Brian Mooney | The Irish Times

College is only one of a wide range of options, but by no means the only one. Photograph: iStock

My son still has no idea what course he wants. Should he still apply to the CAO?

Ask Brian: College one of a range of options – and by no means the only one

Trinity College Dublin hosts matriculation exams in April in a limited number of subjects. Photograph: iStock

Can I use the Trinity matriculation exam for CAO points?

Ask Brian: TCD hosts two matriculation exams in April in geology and biblical studies

University College Dublin, Belfield: Choosing the wrong course has real consequences. Thousands drop out of college in their first year. Photograph: Alan Betson

CAO Countdown: Focus on your interests, not high-point courses

It is wrong to view third-level options totally through prism of points requirements

Supporting your child through the Leaving Cert and college applications process can be a daunting task. Photograph: iStock

My daughter has to register with the CAO but doesn’t know what to study

No need to panic - there is plenty of time to decide exactly what you want to do

The further education sector can be a great route to secure additional skills. Photograph: iStock

I’m 35 and feel ready to start a new career. Where should I start?

Ask Brian: Reflect on what you think are your key strengths and competencies

There are a number of simple steps which policy-makers can take to help fulfill the potential of the education system and pupils over the coming year. Photograph: iStock

What changes could improve education in 2020?

Ask Brian: For a change, here’s my wish list for the education sector in the coming year

My son is in fourth class in our local primary school and is struggling with maths.

Ask Brian: My son is struggling with primary school maths. How can I help?

There are some new online resources available linked to the curriculum

Sacramental preparation takes places during the school day in most national schools. Photograph: iStock

I teach in a Catholic primary school but I’m not a believer. Must I teach the sacraments?

Ask Brian: This is a dilemma shared by many teachers because faith formation is part of the school day in most schools

The introduction of transition year in the 1980s was transformative in terms of the development of wide range of students’ life skills. Photograph: iStock

My daughter’s school doesn’t offer transition year. Why not?

Ask Brian: Some schools still seem to think TY does not fully engage pupils

The issue of communicating sensitive information concerning students with additional needs is highly sensitive and logistically complex one. Photograph: iStock

My son has dyspraxia. How can I ensure he’s supported in school?

Ask Brian: Sharing personal data on children has become more complex due to GDPR

It can be helpful to inform the school of difficulties, and to engage with any supports they offer. Photograph: iStock

My son stays up late on his phone and is missing school. What can I do?

Ask Brian: Secure family and school supports and prepare to take away treats

Students from Mount Carmel Secondary School, King’s Inns Street, Rotunda, Dublin, celebrate their Leaving Cert results. Photograph: Tom Honan

Why are so many Leaving Cert students being upgraded?

Ask Brian: Clerical errors can often be to blame – but there may also be a hidden factor

History will no longer be an optional subject for students completing the Junior Cycle. Photograph: iStock

Does new core status for history in Junior Cycle mean other subjects will lose out?

Much depends on how much teaching time is allocated to history under new changes

Difficulties are a very common for young people moving from the highly managed environment of school to the self-management of college life. Photograph: iStock

My daughter wants to drop out of college. Will it cost more to start a new course?

Ask Brian: Repeat students who leave courses after October 31st pay a penalty

Students from other jurisdictions can apply for college courses in Ireland through the CAO system. Photograph: iStock

Is it difficult to secure a college place in Ireland from abroad?

Ask Brian: Students from other jurisdictions can apply through the CAO system

Photograph: iStock

My son wants to go to a Dutch university. I’m worried he’s too young.

Ask Brian: Courses abroad can pose a major challenge for ‘spoon-fed’ students

There is a false public perception that all successful Dare applicants secure a reduction in CAO points requirements. Photo: iStock

My son is dyslexic. Does he qualify for reduced CAO points?

Ask Brian: Dare scheme assists college applicants with disabilities - but entry points depend on individual courses

While it can be difficult to choose, students should only apply for courses they are fully committed to. Photograph: iStock

My daughter missed out on college and is down in the dumps. What next?

Ask Brian: Students should only apply for courses they are fully committed to

Irish higher-education institutions accept A-levels, though candidates should be careful to ensure all required paperwork is completed properly. Photograph: iStock

I go to school in the North. Can I apply to the CAO?

Ask Brian: Entry is based on a candidate’s scores for their best four subjects

Choosing a CAO course in specific subjects for post-primary teaching is a delicate balancing act. Photograph: iStock

I’m drawn to teaching, but some say it’s not lucrative. Can you offer any advice?

Ask Brian: Love of learning is essential to a sustainable career in teaching

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