LCA
The Leaving Certificate Applied programme is a two-year Leaving Certificate programme aimed at preparing students for adult and working life.
The programme sets out to recognise the talents of all students and to provide opportunities for developing personal responsibility, self-esteem and self-knowledge, and helps students apply what they learn to the real world.
The two-year programme consists of four half-year blocks called sessions. Achievement is credited in each session. Courses are offered in three main areas: Vocational Preparation; General Education; and Vocational Education.
Assessment
Assessment takes place on the completion of modules, and there is also a final examination in each of the following areas:
- English and Communication
- Two vocational specialisms
- Mathematical Applications
- Language
- Social Education
Students who successfully complete the programme are awarded a Leaving Certificate from the Department of Education and Science. The certificate is awarded at three levels: Pass; Merit; and Distinction.
My Time in LCA1
At the start of the year, we all didn't really know each other and we were all a bit quiet. The trips that we went on really helped us get to know each other and have a bit of fun. Our very first trip was bowling. We were all very quiet since it was the first day back in school after the summer and we didn’t know each other; we all enjoyed it, though, and it was a bit of craic. We also went to Baltinglass Adventure Centre, where we did canoeing, ziplining, archery, and rock climbing. We went to Tayto Park as well. Our whole class enjoyed this trip the most; it was one of the highlights of the year. We also went to the Ploughing Championships, which was a very unique experience since the majority of us don’t have any clue about farming. Nevertheless, we enjoyed it altogether. At Christmas, we went ice skating in Swords and got a chance to do some shopping in the centre.
This year, we got a load of new subjects that we’ve never done before that are very unique from mainstream 5th-year subjects. Some of them are Social Ed, Agriculture/Horticulture, Vocational Education Task, Childcare/Community Care, IT, and Career Guidance. As a class, we like Agriculture/Horticulture the most. We like the way we get to go outside and clean up the school grounds a bit sometimes, or we get to go out and plant vegetables. Our main project of the year in Agriculture/Horticulture is that we’re building a path in the church garden for Father Ruairí. We have all loved our experience in LCA 1, and we’re looking forward to LCA 2.
By Luca O’Brien
My Time in LCA2
The LCA2 group has had a memorable and rewarding year, filled with new experiences, challenges, and achievements. From completing tasks and work experience to building friendships and supporting one another, we have grown both in confidence and independence. There were plenty of laughs along the way, and moments we will always remember.
Some of the highlights of the year included our trips together, which brought us even closer as a group. From the fun and laughter on the ice rink during our ice skating trip to the fresh air and exploration at the apple orchard, each outing gave us a chance to relax and enjoy time outside the classroom. Our day in Emerald Park was full of excitement and adrenaline, while the trip to Carlingford created lasting memories through team activities and shared experiences; it was a great way to end our two years together.
As we move on to the next chapter, we are proud of everything we have accomplished and grateful for the support of our teachers and classmates throughout the year. The memories we’ve made and the friendships we’ve built will stay with us long after LCA2.
As a class, we would like to thank our teachers who helped us over the last two years with everything, and especially Mr. Durkan, our LCA coordinator, and Mr. Scallan for their support and help with everything too.
By Jake Cullen