In this episode of the Leaving Cert Guidance podcast, Sarah Ó Tuama and guidance counsellor Donnchadh discuss the Central Applications Office (CAO) process, providing essential tips and insights for students navigating college applications. They cover key topics such as application deadlines, the change of mind facility, common mistakes, and the importance of research. The conversation also highlights new courses for 2026, the points system, and considerations for students with disabilities. Parents are encouraged to support their teens while allowing them to make their own decisions. This episode is brought to you by findmycollegecourse.ieFollow us on Instagram and TikTok @leavingcertguidance
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30:10
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30:10
Navigating College Course Selection
In this episode of the Leaving Cert Guidance podcast, Sarah Ó Tuama and Donnchadh discuss the critical process of selecting a college course. They emphasise the importance of research, aligning personal interests with potential career paths, and the role of parents in guiding students. The conversation also covers practical tips for navigating the CAO application, the significance of open days, and how to prepare for them effectively. Donnchadh shares insights on evaluating new courses and understanding points predictions, while also addressing the needs of shy students during these events. This episode is brought to you by findmycollegecourse.ieFollow @leavingcertgudiance on Instagram and TikTok.
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28:43
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28:43
Applying to UCAS for 2026
In this episode, Sarah asks Donnchadh about the UCAS application and how Irish applicants can tackle it.What is UCAS, how does the application work, how do I write a personal statement, what is student finance and how do repayments work? What courses in Northern Ireland are popular and have no fees?All will be answered in this episode presented by findmycollegecourse.ieDont forget to follow @leavingcertguidance on Instagram and TikTok.
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28:15
Tertiary Degrees-The Irish Education Landscape is Changing!
Donnchadh and Sarah chat on the first Leaving Cert Guidance episode of the academic year, bout Tertiary Degrees.Donnchadh reckons the landscape of the Irish education system has changed with the development of Tertiary degrees.Find out more about Tertiary degrees at nto.ieThe episode is brought to you by IADT Tertiary degrees in Business & Psychology and Immersive Media Production. Check out IADT.ie or nto.ie for more information on these courses.Follow @leavingcertguidance on Instagram and TikTok to stay up to date.
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17:35
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17:35
Let's Rayse Our Study Game
Ray Lanigan is a high impact study skills coach and a school motivational speaker. he joins Donnchadh to discuss his study skills strategies such as the 30 minute study sprint and the whiz grid. What advice does Ray have for students doing their mocks and advice for parents on this journey also?Dont forget to follow @leavingcertguidance on Instagram and TikTok.
Guidance Counsellor, Donnchadh O Mahony, hosts the Leaving Cert Guidance Podcast. Donnchadh gives up to date information to applicants of the CAO, UCAS, PLCs, HEAR and DARE, HPAT etc. Make sure to follow @leavingcertguidance on Instagram and TikTok to stay up to date on when the latest podcast episodes come out.