Holding It All Together – Why Parents Need Support too During Exam Season

As the Leaving Cert approaches, households across Ireland are feeling the pressure. Students are revising, second-guessing themselves, and silently wondering if they’ve done enough. But behind the scenes, many parents are carrying just as much stress and doing it quietly.

They’re the ones Googling things like “Can you repeat English if the exam goes badly?” or “What are the real cut-offs for nursing this year?” They’re staying strong on the outside, but often holding their breath on the inside.

This week, I shared a photo on LinkedIn - a simple image of a glass of water in my hand. It’s part of a story I tell parents in my webinars:

Stress is like a glass of water. The longer you hold it, the heavier it gets.
Sometimes, the best thing we can do is to put the glass down, even for a few minutes.

That might mean taking a walk, watching something light, or just listening to music. These small pauses don’t erase the pressure, but they build resilience - for both parents and students.

I’ve worked in education and healthcare for over 30 years. I’ve supported students through tough transitions, and I’ve also walked the path as a mum of three graduates. What I’ve learned is this: when parents feel supported, students are more likely to thrive.

That’s why I created Pathways.ie - a platform designed to guide parents through the transition from school to college. Webinars will run throughout the summer, offering practical support on everything from navigating results day and CAO offers to helping your young person settle into their next steps, whether that’s college, further education, a gap year, or the world of work. 

For more information or to register, visit www.pathways.ie.