Leaving Cert Grade Deflation: Points & Places

Leaving Cert results are in, and now all eyes are on CAO Round 1 offers - landing tomorrow at 2pm for thousands of students.Valerie McHugh is joined by guidance expert Niamh Dwyer from My Career Plan to break down what “grade deflation” actually means, how CAO points are shaped by supply and demand, and why this year feels especially uncertain with more students in the mix.They also chat through the biggest trends in course choices - from health and teaching to journalism, the environment, maths and AI - plus what to do if you don’t get your first choice, from appeals and available places to PLCs, apprenticeships and studying abroad.And for parents and supporters: how to stay calm, where to get reliable advice, and the national helpline number (1800 265 165).