Junior Cert band changes have been dubbed “a step in the right direction”.
Speaking to Gript, Social Democrats education spokeswoman Jen Cummins welcomed Education Minister Helen McEntee’s decision to revise Junior Cycle grade bands, stating that the previous system was not reflective of student efforts.
“The students we met were clear the 55–70 grade band was too wide and didn’t fairly reflect their efforts,” Cummins said.
“A 15% spread is significant,” she added.
“We need to properly recognise the work students put in, and these changes are a step in the right direction towards a more accurate and fair grading system.”
Cummins also congratulated those who had campaigned for the changes.
“I would like to say congratulations to all the Junior cert students who campaign for this change and the teachers who supported them,” she concluded.
RTÉ has reported today that Education Minister Helen McEntee announced the marks required for the top two Junior Cycle bands – Distinction and Higher Merit – are being widened, making these grades easier to attain.
A Distinction will now be awarded for marks of 85% and above, lowered from the previous threshold of 90%. Higher Merit grades will now apply to marks between 70% and 85%, adjusted from the previous range of 75% to 90%.
Minister McEntee said the changes would have a “positive impact” on students.
“This will have a positive impact on students, ensuring their grades are more reflective of their work and effort, as well as of the work of our teachers,” she said.
“It can be expected that higher numbers of students will achieve Distinction and Higher Merit grades with this change,” McEntee continued.
“They remain sufficiently broad to ensure that students can focus on learning and engaging in school, and on becoming independent, resourceful and confident learners, rather than focusing solely on examinations.”
These changes will take effect for over 73,000 students sitting the Junior Cycle exams this June.