Leaving Certificate Applied
What is the Leaving Certificate Applied?
It is a distinct, self-contained, two year Leaving Certificate programme aimed at preparing learners for adult and working life.
It emphasises forms of achievement and excellence which the established Leaving Certificate has not recognised in the past.
It offers a specific opportunity to prepare for and progress to further education and training. Subjects are continually assessed and project work is key.
The programme focuses on the talents of each student and helps students apply what they learn to the real world.
Why choose Leaving Cert Applied?
- It develops communication, creativity, decision making and self-appraisal skills.
- It prepares learners for the demanding transition to adult and working life.
- It recognises talents of all learners – the programme responds to student’s abilities, needs and interests and offers flexibility.
- It provides opportunity to develop in terms of responsibility, self-esteem and self-knowledge.
- Helps learners achieve a more independent and enterprising approach to learning and to life.
- It is about LEARNING through DOING
What Subjects will I study in Leaving Cert Applied?
LCA consists of three main elements, Vocational Preparation, Vocational Education and General Education. The course includes the following subjects:
- English and Communications
- Vocational Preparation & Guidance (VPG)
- Mathematical Applications
- Leisure and Recreation
- Graphics and Construction
- Social Education
- Drama
- Introduction to Information and Communication Technology
- Hotel & Catering
- Hair and Beauty
- Crafts and Design
- Personal Reflection
Work Experience
- Work Experience is a key element of the Leaving Cert Applied Programme.
- Students will need to complete six work experience placements in this.
- Work Experience takes place for three one week blocks in 5th year.
Assessment
Another key difference between Leaving Cert Applied and Traditional Leaving Cert is in assessment.
There are THREE main elements to assessment in LCA.
- Continuous assessment based on class attendance and completion of key assignments
- Completion of Student tasks
- Completion of final exams in 5 subjects
Students are awarded their official results from the Department of Education at the end of each session so they are aware of their progress during the course, three times before they complete their final year exams.
Their Leaving Cert is awarded in August following their exams, as follows:
Certificate awarded at three levels:
- Pass 60-69 % (120 - 139 credits)
- Merit 70-84 % (140 - 169 credits)
- Distinction 85-100 % (170 - 200 credits)
Assessments of tasks/allocation of credits are on-going and cumulative over two years. The final examination at the end of second year is added to the credits achieved during this two year course.
LCA Coordinator: Mr. Mark Aylward
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