Government cancels plans for teacher-based assessment of Leaving Cert, calling for further research into AI

In a statement released this morning, Education Minister Norma Foley has postponed plans to move toward a teacher-assessment based leaving certificate, as a result of the use of artificial intelligence.

Foley revealed that her department plans to expedite changes to the current Leaving Certificate curriculum by adding nine new and revised subjects, two years earlier than originally planned.

Each of these are set to incorporate continuous assessment elements - not a written exam. However, Foley said that they would be unable to include teacher-based assessment in said reforms, saying that there will need to be further research done on how AI may impact the Leaving Certificate.

The Minister voiced her concern about AI's impact on the education system, saying: “I am particularly conscious of the more recent accelerated evolution and growth in generative AI, and I understand there is a need to explore the opportunities afforded by these developments in an educational context, as well as the challenges they might present."

Speaking today on RTÉ’s 'Morning Ireland', Foley said that further research needed to be done into the impacts of generative AI. She denies that this is a "U-turn" in their decision as apposed to postponing the decision to ensure proper research is done on the issue.

“I had a choice that was very clear to sit on my hands and do nothing in terms of senior cycle reform, and wait until this body of work was completed by the State Examinations Commission… that would not have been in the best interest of students,” she explained.

Per the reform, from 2025 Leaving Cert students can expect to see changes to subjects such as Biology, Physics, Chemistry and Business.

Two new subjects will be introduced: Drama, Film and Theatre Studies; and Climate Action and Sustainable Development.

There will also be more revised subjects in 2026, with further changes to be brought in annually after that point.