The Teachers’ Union of Ireland (TUI) has said it is extremely disappointing that oral examinations will again take place during the Easter break in 2024. Students, teacher unions and Irish language subject association An Gréasán had all called for the examinations to return to term time rather than continuing to take place during the Easter break.
Teachers agreed to the holding of oral examinations at Easter on an exceptional basis during the COVID-19 emergency and have since consistently advocated a return to the pre-pandemic status quo.
As student representative body the Irish Second-Level Students’ Union (ISSU) stated, Easter is an important time for students to take a much-needed break. The clear feedback from all in school communities is that rather than alleviating pressure on students, the holding of oral examinations at Easter time increases pressure, particularly for those taking more than one oral examination in this short time period.
A survey of TUI members showed that 84% of respondents wish to see the examinations take place in the established pre-COVID-19 manner.
We note that the State Examinations Commission (SEC) is currently engaged in an evaluation of the timing of these examinations for future years. We urge them to take on board the clear and consistent position of students and teachers on this important issue and to revert to holding the oral examinations during term time.