Leaving Cert Subjects
Leaving Cert | Leaving Cert Applied (LCA)
Practical Group
These subjects are 'hands-on' and involve working with tools and machinery on physical things like wood, metals and plastic. They may involve designing, planning and building things.
Science Group
These subjects demonstrate how to explore nature using carefully planned methods, and teach the basic methods and findings of scientific investigation.
Artistic & Creative Group
These subjects involve developing creativity and the appreciation of the work of others. This involves learning the methods and techniques of the subject and producing your own work using these skills.
Humanities Group
These subjects explore the ways in which humans live and communicate in the world. Human life is examined by looking at our past, our present and into our future. These subjects help people to express themselves clearly and develop their reasoning ability.
Social Group
These subjects explore common issues faced by all people living in society. They develop the skills and knowledge used to manage personal resources and guide human behaviour.
Sam Franklin, Earth Observation Specialist
What subjects did you take in school and how have these influenced your career path?
I took science and geography options at GCSE level (up to 16), followed by geography, biology and psychology A-Levels (16-18). At A-level, I followed my interests, but with hindsight I wish I had pursued Maths and Physics. The UK system has changed now and you do a wider number of subjects between 16-18 which is a good thing. My lack of science at A-Level did hurt my career progression at university, which required me to get extremely high grades to demonstrate that I could take on the harder science topics at University. My advice is to study Maths (in addition to other things you’re interested in) for as long as possible. It’s like a VIP pass in your career. If you’ve got maths, then that takes you anywhere. I wish I had known this earlier on.
Eoghan O’Flynn, Head Chef (Fota Island Resort)
What subjects did you take in school and how have these influenced your career path?
I took history, biology and tech graphics, I really can’t say any of these had a major impact on my decision to be a chef.
Jack Fitzsimons, Director of Sales & Marketing
What subjects did you take in school and how have these influenced your career path?
I feel the practical experience, alongside the foundation in understanding consumer behaviour, these are the areas I found most interesting, was the psychological side of hospitality and ultimately how a guest feels, this is a skill you learn with experience and having been fortunate to work with prestigious hotels like The Dorchester, The Shelbourne and The Westbury, it set me up to be in an environment with the highest guest expectations, to challenge myself and craft skills in dealing with these types of guests, skills which I am very proud of and use daily.