Curriculum

Junior Cycle

Students complete core subjects and two optional subjects in the three-year programme. Assessments are classroom-based, practical (in optional subjects) and a written exam in June.

In First Year students have the oppurtunity to sample all subjects to allow them to make an informed decision for Junior Cycle.

Junior Cycle Subjects

Core Subjects

Business Studies

Business Studies introduces students to entrepreneurship, enterprise, finance and the world of work. Students develop practical skills such as decision-making, teamwork and financial awareness.

Assessment Breakdown:
  • Classroom-Based Assessment (Enterprise / Business Project): school-based
  • Assessment Task: 10%
  • Final written examination: 90%
Civic, Social and Political Education promotes active citizenship, human rights awareness and social responsibility through real-world action.
Assessment Breakdown:
  • Citizenship Action Project Report: 100% (No final written exam)

English is a core subject that helps students develop essential communication, critical thinking, and creativity skills. In Junior Cycle, students explore a wide range of texts, including novels, plays, poetry, film, and media. They build confidence in reading, writing, speaking, and listening, while learning to express their ideas clearly and effectively.

Senior Cycle, English further develops students’ ability to think critically, communicate clearly and engage deeply with language and literature. Students study a diverse range of texts while refining skills in analytical writing, argument and creative expression.

Across both cycles, English encourages students to think independently, engage with the world around them, and appreciate the power of language. It supports success across all subjects and equips students with lifelong skills for education, work, and communication.

Geography helps students understand the physical and human world, sustainability and global citizenship. Students investigate real-world issues such as climate, development and environmental change.

Assessment Breakdown:
  • Classroom-Based Assessment (Geographical Investigation): school-based 10%
  • Final written examination: 90%

History invites students to explore the people, events, and ideas that have shaped our world. In Junior Cycle, students study topics from ancient civilisations to modern Ireland, developing skills in analysing sources and forming evidence-based opinions.

At Senior Cycle, students build research, analytical, and evaluative skills through the study of Modern Irish History and Modern Europe and the Wider World (1870–present). Assessment includes a Research Study Report (20%) and a final exam (80%).

History encourages critical thinking, curiosity and an understanding of how the past shapes today’s world, supporting a wide range of future pathways.

Building students confidence within the language and developing a positive outlook is emphasised at Junior Cycle. Students study a range of literature, practice using spoken Irish and complete classroom projects.

Assessment Breakdown:
  • Classroom-Based Assessments (CBAs): school-based – 10%
  • Final written examination: 90%

Mathematics focuses on problem-solving, logical reasoning and numeracy skills that are essential for further study and everyday life. Students explore number, algebra, geometry, statistics and probability.

Assessment Breakdown:
  • Classroom-Based Assessments (2 CBAs): school-based
  • Final written examination: 100%
Physical Education promotes physical literacy, teamwork and lifelong participation in sport and physical activity.

Religious Education supports students in exploring belief, values, ethics and world religions. The subject encourages reflection, critical thinking and respect for diversity.

Assessment Breakdown:
  • Classroom-Based Assessment: school-based
  • Assessment Task: 10%
  • Final written examination: 90%

Science develops curiosity and inquiry through hands-on experimentation and investigation. Students explore biology, chemistry and physics while building practical, analytical and problem-solving skills.

Assessment Breakdown:
  • Classroom-Based Assessment (Investigation): school-based
  • Assessment Task: 10%
  • Final written examination: 90%
SPHE is a core pillar of the junior cycle Wellbeing programme. The six indicators of wellbeing – Active, Responsible, Connected, Resilient, Respected and Aware – describe what is important for young people and their wellbeing. The SPHE course supports young people to develop all six indicators of wellbeing.
Assessment:
Classroom Based Assessment: This Classroom-Based Assessment can be completed during second or third year.Students can choose between: Portfolio of my learning and reflection in SPHE Or Taking action for SPHE The focus of assessment is on allowing students to demonstrate the knowledge, skills, dispositions and values they have gained through their engagement in learning in SPHE.

Opitional Subjects

Art, Craft & Design

Art nurtures creativity, visual communication and self-expression through practical work and design processes. Students work with a variety of media while developing artistic confidence.

Assessment Breakdown:
  • Classroom-Based Assessments: school-based
  • Project Assessment: 100%

French develops communication skills in a modern European language and introduces students to French culture and everyday life. Students gain confidence in speaking, listening, reading and writing.

Assessment Breakdown:
  • Classroom-Based Assessments (2 CBAs): school-based
  • Assessment Task: 10%
  • Final written examination (includes listening): 90%

Home Economics develops practical life skills in nutrition, textiles, consumer awareness and family life, supporting wellbeing and independent living.

Assessment Breakdown:
  • Classroom-Based Assessments (practical & written): school-based
  • Assessment Task: 10%
  • Final written examination: 90

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Materials Technology (Wood) focuses on design, creativity and practical woodworking skills. Students design and manufacture artefacts while developing problem-solving abilities.

Assessment Breakdown:
  • Classroom-Based Assessment (Design & Make Project): school-based
  • Assessment Task: 10%
  • Final written examination: 90%

Junior Cycle Music encourages students to develop their skills in performing, composing and listening, while fostering creativity, confidence and an enjoyment of music across a variety of styles.

Assessment Breakdown
  • Final Written Examination: 90%
  • Assessment Task (linked to CBA 2): 10%
  • Classroom-Based Assessments (CBAs):
    1. CBA 1 – Musical Performance (2nd Year)
    2. CBA 2 – Portfolio of Musical Learning (3rd Year)

First year students study a sample of all optional subjects.

They will select two options along with the core, to study at Junior Certificate level.

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