In this episode of 'It All Works Out' we talk about that all-important Leaving Cert reform. For years, young people have been shouting that this "one size fits all" exam is not fit for purpose. While it suits some learning styles, it is not an accurate measure of intelligence for everyone and puts incredible stress on all young people, regardless of ability. Luke talks to Ciara from ISSU, Bressie and the Class of Covid19 on what this reform should look like and how young people can amplify their voices on this important issue.

So many of us got that first year in college experience; the first chance at independence, new friends, new adventures and following our passion. In this episode, we talk about how we’re managing the transition into university in the wake of Covid19 and focusing on the bigger picture. Luke talks to guidance counsellor Brid Hannan from Trinity College about what kind of things we can do to help us in these crazy days.

Uncertainty became the buzz word of 2020. From when the schools closed in March to the lead up to when the exams were officially cancelled, nobody had a clue what was going on. Even now, the results are out, college offers have been released but a massive uncertainty still faces young people. In this episode, we hear from the class of Covid19 on how the uncertainty impacted their mental health. Luke also interviews psychologist Aisling Leonard Curtin about sitting with uncertainty from a psychological perspective and the small actions we can take that can have a big effect on our emotional wellbeing.

In Episode two of ‘It All Works Out’ we look at the milestones that this year’s Leaving Cert Class missed out on. It’s the simple things we all took for granted; the last day of school, the grad mass, the debs, getting the exams with your friends around you, these simple transitions from secondary school into adulthood are important parts of growing up. This episode allows for a grieving of those missed moments. Luke speaks to Alicia, Conor, Ellen, Sean and Jamesie about what they have missed. We also hear from Chartered Psychologist and ‘The Blizzards’ Bass Player Louize Carroll on how we can overcome this grief.

Produced by Ciara O'Connor Walsh and A Lust for Life Hosted by Luke Casserly

We all have nightmares about the horrors of the leaving cert, but the leaving cert class of Covid-19 have had one of the hardest leaving cert years in Irish history.    Award-winning mental health charity A Lust for Life, present a six-part podcast series, “It All Works Out” with the class of covid-19 – who have had – and continue to have – an unprecedented and traumatic year.