Every year, thousands of students around the country are overwhelmed with constant reminders of the importance of the Leaving Certificate on their life choices.
Picture Credit: Colm Mahady / Fennells
The significance of high points and good results can be difficult for all involved, and the biggest battle for anxious parents can be holding back their own concerns about their teenagers. But practical advice around further education options can be found via the eir supported Exam Helpline, now recognised as a valuable resource for parents and students. For over 20 years the Exam helpline provided by The National Parents Council Post Primary (NPCpp), and supported by eir, has been there to help parents and students who are seeking advice, and up to date information on the choices available and guidance on next steps.
The 1800 265 165 Freephone helpline is open from 10am on Wednesday, 17th August, to take calls from students, parents and teachers seeking advice and up to date information on what choices are available to students. The Helpline is sponsored by eir, supported by the Department of Education and Skills and staffed by members of the Institute of Guidance Counsellors. The Helpline received a record number of 2,500 calls last year involving more than 5,000 separate queries and this number is expected to rise this year.
Lynda O’Shea from NPCpp said “The Exam Helpline has proven invaluable for parents, students and teachers over the past 20 years. There is a huge amount of information now online and this can become confusing for students in a time of need. Picking up the phone and being able to speak to a qualified guidance counsellor can really help clarify options for parents and students and relieve some of the stress that often comes at results time.”
John Anslow, Group Sponsorship Manager at eir said, “We’ve been supporting the Exam Helpline for over 20 years and the company is delighted to be on board again. At eir, we’re committed to providing support and resources for students – especially during the time of leaving and junior cert results – and we believe the Exam Helpline offers that.”
The opening hours of HELPLINE 2016 are:
Aug 17th and 18th 10am to 7pm
Aug 19th 10am to 1pm
Aug 22nd and 23rd 8am to 7pm
Aug 24th 8am to 1pm