Having gone through the system recently, I find it quite clear once you document yourself and understand the grading. Application to the CAO is straight forward. While really stressful if you are aiming for a challenging goal, what you need to achieve in terms of mark is relatively clear (though the post mark adjustments since covid muddle things). I believe the integrity of the leaving certificate is at risk with the multiplication of projects which would inevitably favor the students with the most resources. Currently students can access grinds, private education and receive help. However at the end of the day they are alone in front of their exam papers. They don't improve their knowledge by osmosis and have to put some kind of work to be able to get a high mark.