Sir, – I sincerely hope that no prospective Leaving Cert student adopts Ann Marie Hourihane’s entirely negative, defeatist attitude in relation to their studies (Opinion, August 13th).
Despite her generalisations on the achievements and happiness of those for whom academic achievement was not a priority at school, the hard fact remains that success in the Leaving Cert is crucial if one is aiming for university, and is increasingly important for employers hiring directly from schools. Although recognising that the system is imperfect, we should encourage students to realise their maximum potential, while commentators such as Ann Marie Hourihane should use their platform to lobby for positive, constructive reform. Surely that is a truer reflection of the Olympic spirit. – Yours, etc,