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What is the Leaving Certificate Applied Programme?
- 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 learners specific opportunity to prepare for and progress to further education and training.
What are the Aims of the LCA Programme in St Louis Secondary School?
- The LCA Programme prepares learners for the demanding transition to adult and working life.
- It recognises talents of all learners and provides the opportunity to develop in the context of their aptitudes, abilities, needs and interests.
- It provides the opportunity to develop in terms of understanding, responsibility, self-esteem and self-knowledge.
- The LCA develops communication, decision making and reflective skills.
- It helps learners achieve a more independent and enterprising approach to learning and to life.
What Courses are offered in the LCA Programme?
The programme is divided into three main areas:
- Vocational Preparation
- Vocational Education
- General Education
| Curriculum | |
| Vocational Preparation | Vocational Preparation & Guidance |
| English & Communications | |
| Vocational Education | Mathematical Applications |
| Vocational Specialisms | |
| Information Communication Technology | |
| General Education | Arts Education |
| Social Education | |
| Languages | |
| Leisure & Recreation | |
| Religious Education | |
| Science | |
Assessment in the Leaving Certificate Applied Programme
The LCA Programme has three Modes of Assessment:
Satisfactory Completion of Modules: 62 credits (31%)
7 Student Tasks: 70 credits (35%)
Final Examination: 68 credits (34%)
Total: 200 credits
Students are assessed on a continuous basis over the four sessions (2 years) with credits being awarded at the end of the session when the Assessment Requirements are fulfilled:
- 90% attendance
- Evidence of completion of 4 key assignments for each module
Terminal Exams
Terminal Exams are provided in the following areas:
- English and Communication
- Two Vocational Specialisms
- Mathematical Applications
- Language (Gaeilge & Modern European Languages)
- Social Education
The terminal exams are held in the same period as other Leaving Certificate examinations. Oral and aural exams will be held in the case of all the languages including English and Communications.
LCA Awards
The LCA is awarded at three levels:
Pass: 120 – 139 Credits (60 – 69%)
Merit: 140 – 169 Credits (70 – 84%)
Distinction: 170 – 200 Credits (85 – 100%)
Can a Student go on to Further Education and Training?
Yes, the LCA is accepted in most Post Leaving Certificate (PLC) courses and apprenticeships. Completing these courses will in many cases allows a student to progress to third level Institutes of Technology.