Quick Read
- Leaving Cert students found Maths Paper 2 significantly more accessible than Paper 1.
- Experts emphasize that preparation in probability and statistics was key to scoring well.
- The 2026 State exams in Ireland are scheduled to conclude on June 23.
A Shift in Exam Sentiment
Following a rigorous start to the 2026 State examinations with Paper 1 last Friday, Leaving Cert students in Ireland reported a sense of relief after sitting for Mathematics Paper 2 on Monday morning. Educators and students alike have described the paper as “fair” and “approachable,” marking a distinct improvement in sentiment compared to the previous week’s testing.
Expert Assessment
Niall Duddy, a mathematics teacher and subject spokesperson for the Association of Secondary Teachers Ireland (ASTI), confirmed that the reaction among students was “overwhelmingly positive.” According to Duddy, the paper struck a chord with the cohort, particularly those who had focused their preparation on probability and statistics. “If they were well prepared in that area, they would have gotten well over 100 marks,” Duddy noted, highlighting that the paper also included well-received questions on trigonometry, area, and volume.
The ordinary-level paper also received favorable feedback. Stephen Begley, a teacher and subject spokesperson for Studyclix, described it as “fair and approachable” with a range of choices that allowed students to demonstrate their knowledge effectively. The paper drew heavily from familiar topics, rewarding those who utilized past exam papers for their revision.
Broader Exam Context
The 2026 State exams, which include the Junior Cycle science assessments, are set to conclude on June 23. While the focus remains on the ongoing Leaving Cert cycle—with Irish Paper 1 and 2 following in the immediate schedule—the positive reception of Mathematics Paper 2 provides a needed morale boost for students navigating the intensive examination period.