Soc Dems call for “fairer” exam system for dyslexic students

Social Democrats TD and education spokesperson Jen Cummins has called for “urgent” reform of the State examinations process and to allow more time and resources for students with dyslexia.

Cummins said, “students with dyslexia are expected to complete their exams under the same strict time limits as their peers, despite often needing to read and process exam questions multiple times,” and called for a more level playing field.

At a meeting of the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Education and Youth earlier in October, Cummins highlighted the need for the Department of Education to review the current Reasonable Accommodations at Certificate Examinations (RACE) scheme.

In her view, the current scheme doesn’t “reflect the challenges faced by students with specific learning difficulties.”

Cummins pointed to what is being done in the UK for students with dyslexia sitting state exams, noting that students are provided with additional time because it is recognised that their processing speed and reading fluency can impact their ability to demonstrate their knowledge under pressure.

“We should be affording Irish students the same fairness and understanding – ironically, the SEC has requested the committee for more time regarding the review, exactly what dyslexic students are looking for.”

Cummins warned that “Ireland risks falling behind international best practice if it fails to modernise its approach – in other jurisdictions, there is a recognition that exam timing can present an additional barrier for students with learning differences.”

She said that the purpose of the Junior and Leaving Cert should be to test understanding, not reading speed.

“We need to ensure every student has a fair opportunity to show what they know; we cannot ask students with dyslexia to jump hurdles that others do not face and then expect to judge them by the same stopwatch.”

Cummins said she was calling on the Department of Education to work closely with schools, parents and advocacy groups to make the RACE scheme “more transparent and responsive.”

“Our education system should empower every child to succeed on their own terms, beginning with equity and fairness.”

“Minister McEntee must act quickly to reform the RACE framework ahead of the 2026 exam cycle, ensuring that all students with specific learning difficulties are given the time and tools they need to perform to their potential.”