New plans have been launched which will make the Leaving Cert less predictable for pupils.

It is part of an overall review which aims to get students to think and use their knowledge during exams rather than regurgitate pieces they have learned off by heart.

It will also see the heat taken off the points race by reducing the number of grading bands and cutting the number of degree courses available.

Education Minister Ruairi Quinn said it is about making sure students leave school with the best possible education.

He said: "I think my concern really, and I think it is the concern of everyone in the education system whether in the third-level sector or the second-level sector, is that the journey of the individual student is optimised, that they get a good education

"There is nothing wrong with the curriculum in the Leaving Certificate, it is ensuring that they get the broad experience of that curriculum."