Curriculum

Senior Cycle

Students select four subjects from the optional subject choice to be taken with three core subjects. Subject can be studied at Ordinary or Higher level.

Terminal written exams take place in June. Some subjects contain a project or practical element which is assessed separately.

Senior Cycle Subjects

Core Subjects

Irish (Gaeilge)

Leaving Certificate Irish builds upon language skills developed in Junior Cycle, with an emphasis on the spoken language, writing and studying literature. We hope to develop students love of the language and sense of culture. We place a strong focus on building students’ confidence in spoken Irish, encouraging active use of the language in a supportive environment. Students also have opportunities to engage further with Irish through Gaeltacht trips and cultural activities.

Assessment Breakdown:
  • Oral examination (spoken Irish): 40%
  • Aural comprehension (listening): 10%
  • Written examinations (reading & writing): 50%

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.

Leaving Certificate Mathematics equips students with essential problem-solving, analytical and logical reasoning skills. The course builds strong foundations for further study in STEM, business, economics and technology-related pathways, as well as practical everyday applications.

Assessment Breakdown:
  • Two written examination papers: 100

Religious Education encourages students to explore philosophical questions, ethical issues and religious traditions in contemporary society. The course promotes critical reflection, empathy and an informed understanding of belief systems and moral decision-making

Business develops students’ understanding of enterprise, management, economics and financial literacy. The subject equips students with practical skills for the workplace and entrepreneurial thinking useful across a wide range of careers.

Assessment Breakdown:
  • Written examination: 60%
  • Additional Assessment Component (AAC): 40%

Leaving Certificate Physical Education combines theory and practical learning to support students’ physical literacy, wellbeing and understanding of sport science. Students explore performance, physical activity and health through both active participation and academic study.

Assessment Breakdown:
  • AAC – PEP: Physical Education Project 50%
  • Final written examination: 50%

Opitional Subjects

Art, Craft & Design

Art encourages creativity, innovation, and visual communication through practical work and critical appreciation of art and design. Students build a portfolio showcasing their creative process and artistic development.

Assessment Breakdown:
  • Practical coursework portfolio: 70%
  • Final written examination: 30%

Home Economics combines scientific knowledge with social studies, focusing on nutrition, health, family life and consumer awareness. Students develop practical life skills and an understanding of wellbeing and sustainable living.

Assessment Breakdown:
  • Practical coursework and written assignments: 20%
  • Final written examination: 80%

DCG develops spatial reasoning, creative problem-solving and design skills through graphical communication and design projects. Students learn to communicate ideas visually using both manual and digital techniques.

Assessment Breakdown:
  • Design project: 40%
  • Graphical drawing examination: 60%

Construction Studies develops practical and technical knowledge of building design, materials and sustainability. The subject supports pathways into engineering, architecture, construction and apprenticeships.

Assessment Breakdown:
  • Practical project: 30%
  • Day practical exam: 20%
  • Final written examination: 50%

Leaving Certificate Agricultural Science is the study of the science and technology underlying the principles and practices of modern agriculture. It is a scientific approach to the knowledge and understanding, skills and attitudes that affect the long-term sustainability of natural resources–the land, plants, and animals–and places particular emphasis on the sustainable use of these resources for the economic and social benefit of humankind. Agricultural science can make a significant contribution to the scientific, aesthetic and moral education of young people through its focus on knowledge, processes, methods and context, and through its investigative laboratory and field-based activities, independent and guided research and study, projects and assignments.

Assessment Breakdown:
  • Coursework (individual Investigation Study): 25%
  • Final written examination: 75%

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.

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.

Geography explores the interrelationship between people, place and environment at local, national and global levels. Students develop investigative skills, environmental awareness and a strong understanding of sustainability and global citizenship.

Assessment Breakdown:
  • Geographical Investigation Report: 40%
  • Final written examination: 60%

Leaving Certificate French develops students’ ability to communicate confidently in a modern European language while gaining insight into French-speaking cultures and societies. The subject supports international awareness and enhances career and study opportunities.

Assessment Breakdown:
  • Oral examination: 25%
  • Aural (listening comprehension): 20%
  • Written examination (reading & writing): 55%

Biology explores the science of living organisms, from cells and genetics to human health and ecology. It focuses on developing scientific literacy so students are prepared for future challenges, lifelong learning, and living sustainably in a modern, technology-driven society.

Assessment Breakdown:
  • Assessment Breakdown:
  • Written examination: 60%
  • Additional Assessment Component (AAC): 40%

Chemistry focuses on matter, energy and chemical change, helping students understand the world at an atomic and molecular level. The course promotes analytical thinking, experimental skills and scientific literacy.

Assessment Breakdown:
  • Final written examination: 60%
  • Additional Assessment Component (AAC): 40%

Physics explores fundamental principles such as motion, energy, electricity and waves, encouraging logical reasoning and problem-solving. The subject is particularly valuable for students considering engineering, technology or science-based careers.

Assessment Breakdown:
  • Final written examination: 60%
  • Additional Assessment Component (AAC): 40%

LCW is a new two-year Irish Leaving Certificate subject (introduced September 2026). It focuses on practical life skills, career foundation, and enterprise. This subject is ideal for students who enjoy practical learning, real-life application, and developing skills that will support them in further education, training, employment and active participation in their communities.

LCW is offered at common level and is graded using a four-point scale (Distinction, Merit, Pass, Not Achieved). 50% is required to pass this subject. Exam is traditionally held before the May bank holiday.

Assessment Breakdown
  • Additional Assessment Component “Portfolio in Action” 60%
  • written exam 40%

Leaving Certificate Music is a creative and practical subject combining performance, composition and listening, allowing students to develop musicianship, creativity and an appreciation of music from a range of styles and traditions.

Assessment Breakdown
  • Performing: 50% (practical exam held in 6th year; includes a performance elective at Higher Level)
  • Composing: 25% (written composition paper in June)
  • Listening: 25% (written and aural listening paper in June)
Core Optional Subjects
Irish Business
English Art, Crafts & Design
Mathematics Construction Studies
RE Home Economics (S+S)
PE Design, Communication and Graphics
Career Guidance Agricultural Science
History
Geography
French
Biology
Chemistry
Physics

Enhanced Leaving Certificate Programme (includes LCVP)

A two year programme where students take LCVP (Leaving Certificate Vocational Programme) as an extra subject along with selected Leaving Certificate subjects. Students may only avail of this programme if they comply with Department of Education and Skills LCVP Guidelines. Website: (lcvp.ie)

LCVP is a business based subject with practical application in the world of work and business.

Assessment is portfolio based (60%) with a written terminal exam in June (40%)

Over 85% of students who opt for this programme have used LCVP to gain College entrance on the CAO points system.

Scroll to Top