By Daniel Brooks • Ireland & Community News
A remarkable Irish schoolgirl has captured national attention after completing one of the country’s toughest academic exams years ahead of schedule — all while raising tens of thousands of euros for autism awareness.
Cara Darmody, from County Tipperary, sat the Leaving Certificate maths exam at just 12 years old, using the challenge to highlight long waiting times faced by children seeking autism assessments in Ireland.
Her campaign has already raised more than €50,000 for charity while prompting conversations at the highest levels of Irish government.
Taking On One of Ireland’s Toughest Exams
Cara chose to sit the maths paper six years earlier than most teenagers — not for academic recognition, but to draw attention to challenges faced by families navigating Ireland’s special needs assessment system.
The young campaigner was inspired by her two younger brothers, John and Neil, who are autistic and non-verbal.
Their experiences with long waiting lists motivated her to take action.
Speaking in interviews following the exam, she said she hoped to shine a spotlight on thousands of children still waiting for assessments and support services.
Officials estimate that tens of thousands of families across Ireland continue to face delays accessing specialist evaluations.
Studying Hundreds of Hours With Family Support
Cara prepared extensively for the challenge, studying alongside her father Mark rather than working with professional tutors.
She explained that the pair learned the material together day by day — a process she described as both demanding and rewarding.
Despite her age, she reportedly spent hundreds of hours preparing for the exam.
After completing the test, she admitted the papers were particularly challenging, noting that one section had been among the most difficult in recent years.
However, the experience also strengthened her determination to continue campaigning.
Supporters praised the effort as an example of how young people can use education and personal experiences to advocate for wider social change.
Campaign Inspired by Autism Awareness
Cara’s fundraising campaign focuses on raising awareness around delays affecting children with additional needs.
Her family’s experience navigating assessment processes highlighted the emotional and practical challenges many parents face when waiting for support services.
She has spoken publicly about wanting change for children who struggle to access education resources or therapies during crucial developmental years.
Money raised through her fundraiser is intended to support autism awareness initiatives and families seeking assistance.
During interviews, she encouraged supporters to donate even small amounts, saying every contribution helps those who may not have a voice of their own.
Her efforts have resonated widely online, with thousands following her progress.
Meetings With National Leaders
The campaign has also attracted attention from senior political figures.
Cara revealed that Ireland’s Taoiseach agreed in principle to meet her to discuss concerns surrounding assessment waiting lists.
She was also scheduled to meet President Michael D. Higgins as part of ongoing awareness discussions.
Observers say the response highlights how grassroots activism — even from younger voices — can influence public debate.
Education and disability advocacy groups have welcomed the attention brought to the issue, saying public awareness is often the first step toward policy reform.
Not Her First Academic Challenge
This was not Cara’s first experience sitting exams ahead of schedule.
At just 11 years old, she previously completed the Junior Certificate early — another milestone that demonstrated both academic confidence and determination.
Family members said studying together became a daily routine filled with problem-solving and encouragement.
While the preparation required significant commitment, Cara described the process as enjoyable despite the hard work involved.
Supporters across Ireland praised her resilience, noting that the campaign combined education with advocacy in a unique way.
Why Her Story Has Resonated
Stories of young campaigners often capture public imagination because they reflect wider social concerns.
In this case, many families recognised similar struggles navigating support systems for children with additional needs.
Advocates say early intervention plays a crucial role in improving long-term outcomes for autistic children.
Delays can affect education access, therapy opportunities and family wellbeing.
Cara’s approach — combining fundraising, public speaking and academic achievement — has helped bring renewed attention to those challenges.
What Happens Next
The young activist says her campaigning work is only just beginning.
Alongside continuing her education, she hopes to keep raising awareness about disability services and encourage meaningful change for families waiting for assessments.
With thousands already inspired by her efforts, supporters believe the campaign could continue growing in the months ahead.
For now, the remarkable achievement stands as an example of how determination and personal motivation can turn a school exam into a nationwide conversation.
Key Points at a Glance
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Cara Darmody sat the Leaving Cert maths exam aged just 12
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The challenge aimed to raise autism awareness in Ireland
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More than €50,000 has been raised through fundraising efforts
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Her activism was inspired by her autistic younger brothers
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Meetings with senior political figures are planned.
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