The Education Minister says it gives students and families clarity.
All third year students are to be awarded a certificate for the completion of the Junior Cycle by the Department of Education, it has emerged.
Schools will be given autonomy to assess students, and they'll receive a written school report on their achievements in each subject.
Education Minister Joe Mc Hugh says the decision gives students and their families more clarity and certainty.
Minister Mc Hugh says it also gives schools freedom to decide how best to assess the progress of students following three years of hard work and learning.
