The Leaving Certificate Applied is a distinct, self-contained 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
This section focuses on preparation for Work, Work experience, Enterprise English and Communications
General Education
This section concentrates on a student’s life skills, including Languages, Leisure, Art and Social Education.
Vocational Education
This section is concerned with the development of Mathematical applications, Information Technology and the skills necessary for specialist areas. Each course is made up of a number of modules. Each module takes half a year to complete. There is also a wide range of practical courses, called vocational specialisms, from which the student can choose. 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 120-139 credits
- Merit 140-169 credits
- Distinction 170-200 credits
Candidates who get less than 120 credits or who do not complete the course, are awarded a Record of Experience.