At 9.30am, more than 140,000 students across Ireland opened their papers and got the 2026 state exams under way. For many, Leaving Cert day one brought the kind of relief that only comes after the first page is turned, with teachers describing English paper one as a calm and accessible start.
Scenes from schools including Gaelcholáiste na Mara in Arklow captured the familiar mix of nerves, uniforms, rain showers and deep breaths. Then the doors closed, and the work began.
What stood out on Leaving Cert day one
Early reaction suggested English paper one landed well with many students. Teachers said the options were broad, approachable and fair, especially for students who read widely and felt comfortable with creative writing. One teacher called it a “lovely” exam, while another said students came out looking relieved.
Home economics, which followed later in the day, drew a more mixed but still largely positive response. Teachers said the paper covered a wide spread of topics and felt current, with references to issues such as housing, processed foods, shopping trends and special diets.
- English paper one was widely described as student-friendly
- Home economics was seen as topical and accessible overall
- The 2026 exam season runs until June 23rd
Leaving Cert day one also brought renewed attention to the experience of students using the RACE scheme. This year, eligible students received an additional 10 minutes per exam under a pilot measure, though some families say that still falls short of what is needed.
A first step, then on to tomorrow
There was encouragement, too, in the smaller details of the day: a student from Clare feeling ready for home economics, parents waiting on the “it was grand” phone call, and the simple fact that the first hurdle is now behind them. That is often what Leaving Cert day one is really about.
Tomorrow brings engineering and English paper two. But for now, students can take the win of getting started. If Leaving Cert day one set the tone, this exam season may open with a little more confidence than fear. And sometimes, after months of build-up, that is plenty.
Image Courtesy: The Irish Times
