The Leaving Cert Applied is a two-year Leaving Certificate available to students who wish to follow a practical Leaving Cert with a vocational focus. It is a practical Leaving Certificate Programme which places particular emphasis on preparation for the world of work and lifelong learning. Work experience is a significant component of the programme, and students get to sample a range of jobs and get firsthand experience of the world of work. Here in Ballinode Community College students have work experience on Friday for the duration of the school year.
The learning experiences that students have are active and practical, where students get the opportunity to apply their knowledge, skills and experience to real life situations in the school, the workplace and in the wider community.
Students develop skills for work and life;
The programme provides a wealth of opportunities which enhance the self-esteem and confidence of students. There is less emphasis on the final examinations as coursework is assessed throughout the two years and students “gain credits” as they go along. Students’ work and skill development is assed in a variety of different ways including interviews, written, oral and practical components. Four times throughout the two years students get a statement of their results from the State Examinations Commission. In this way they experience regular feedback on their success and achievement.
As students complete and submit their Leaving Certificate Applied course work, they are awarded what are called “credits”. There are 200 credits available in total which are awarded as follows;
62 Credits | 31% | Ongoing attendance, Classwork & Assignments |
70 Credits | 35% | Seven student Tasks (Projects) |
68 Credits | 34% | Seven final Examinations |
Total 200 Credits
The Leaving Certificate Applied is awarded at 3 levels
Students who accumulate fewer than 120 credits receive a Record of Experience.
Courses (subjects) that are offered in Leaving Certificate Applied in Ballinode Community College. All students of Leaving Certificate Applied take the following subjects;
In addition to the above, students choose to complete two specialist courses;
Entry to the Leaving Certificate Applied Programme is by means of an interview. Applications can be made to ballinodecollege@msletb.ie.
Yes, The Leaving Certificate Applied is accepted for a wide range of Post Leaving Certificate Courses (PLC) at FETAC Level 5, it also provides access to most apprenticeships and other vocational training awards.
Graduates of Leaving Certificate Applied do not have direct access to Higher Education through the Central Applications Office (CAO)