Leaving Cert reform began in classrooms last August. Originally, the plan was to have some schools pilot the new subjects and learn from that experience before the subjects were introduced for everyone.

After a unilateral announcement by then education minister Norma Foley on Morning Ireland two years ago, that schedule was scrapped. Instead, current fifth-year students are guinea pigs in vital subjects such as biology, physics, chemistry and business.

As the end of the first term approaches, teachers are probably best described as wearily getting on with it. Although the TUI accepted a package of supports and the ASTI rejected it, neither union could be described as being thrilled with the way teachers’ concerns were largely ignored.

There are some positive aspects. Sample exam papers were issued before term started.

Additional funding was provided, with the grant per student for science subjects rising from €13 to €25. All non-fee-paying schools will receive a minimum payment of €13,000 up to a maximum of €22,000, depending on the number taking science. Deis schools will receive an additional 10 per cent. In total,

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