With the Leaving Certificate exams approaching in Ireland, sixth-year students and their parents should recognize that CAO points are not the only determinant of future success. Kate Byrne highlights in The Irish Times how Post Leaving Certificate courses can serve as valuable stepping stones to higher education and the job market. Additionally, Brian Mooney addresses parental concerns regarding financial support for students entering college. The pressure of the Leaving Cert affects the entire household, as it's often said that when one student is preparing, the whole family is involved. To assist families during this stressful time, a special episode of the Conversations with Parents podcast will feature education and mental health experts offering guidance for final exam preparations. Furthermore, Martin Wall notes a significant projected decline in primary school enrolments over the next decade, indicating potential shifts in the education landscape.