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DUBLIN — August 19, 2025 — The Department of Education and Youth has announced the launch of the National Parents and Students Leaving Certificate Helpline, which will open at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, August 22. The freephone and text-based support service is designed to assist students and their families during the critical period when Leaving Certificate results and CAO offers are released.
The initiative provides direct access to experienced guidance counsellors who will offer live, person-centred advice on a wide range of academic and post-secondary pathways.
🧭 Comprehensive Support for Students and Guardians
The helpline will offer expert guidance on:
- Calculating CAO points and interpreting results
- Rechecking exam scripts and appealing grades
- Accepting, deferring, or declining CAO offers
- Options for students who fail a subject or wish to repeat exams
- Understanding course preferences and application procedures
- Exploring alternative pathways including apprenticeships, private colleges, and UCAS/UNICAS applications
- Navigating registration fees, gap years, and further education and training opportunities
The service is coordinated by the Institute of Guidance Counsellors and supported by the National Parents Council Post-Primary and the Irish Second Level Students’ Union. Trinity College Dublin is the official sponsor.
🗣️ Ministerial Endorsement
Minister for Education and Youth, Helen McEntee TD, praised the initiative:
“The National Parent and Student Helpline is a hugely valuable service for students and their families at a time of important decisions and change. This helpline connects families with expert guidance counsellors, providing reassurance and clarity. I would like to sincerely thank all those involved in delivering this service again this year.”
📅 Operating Hours and Contact Details
- Phone: 1800 265 165 (Freephone)
- Text: GUIDANCE to 086 1800 685 (Standard message rates apply)
- Opening Hours:
- Weekdays: August 22, 25–29 | 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
- Saturdays: August 23 & 30 | 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
- Text replies will be issued during helpline hours.
All personal data shared during interactions will be handled in accordance with GDPR guidelines, ensuring confidentiality and privacy for all users.
Department-of-Education-Ireland-Picture-by-Jean-House
