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.
Maree O’Brien, Guest Experience Manager, Sustainability & Innovation Lead
What subjects did you take in school and how have these influenced your career path?
Well, if anything, my story is a cautionary tale about always listening to your heart and doing what you truly want to do. If I had followed mine, I would have gone into Hotel and Catering Management straight away. But I believe that no matter what path you take, you’ll always find your way back to the thing you love. For me, that’s working as a Guest Experience Manager. Despite the detour, the life and work experience I’ve gained along the way has been invaluable, helping me develop my role and enhance our guest experience. It’s taken a winding road, but for now I’m exactly where I’m meant to be, doing what I’m passionate about.
Sinead O'Sullivan , CEO of Fusion Space Technologies
What subjects did you take in school and how have these influenced your career path?
I studied Physics, Maths, French and Law. These somewhat influenced my career, but what I did outside of school had a much bigger impact. For example, when I was 15 I got selected to go to NASA Space Camp. That was an “aha” moment!
Keith Hayes, Ambulance / Paramedic
What subjects did you take in school and how have these influenced your career path?
In school there was very poor attention given to, or ‘guidance’ towards suitable careers. I was lucky I knew what I wanted to do. This, looking back was disappointing because I had no drive to go to third level college. I knew all I needed to be a Paramedic was the Leaving Cert.
In the Leaving Cert I took English, Irish, Maths, French, Biology, Chemistry and History pretty much the standard, they didn’t really have much influence on my career choice. That said, Biology and Chemistry are a great foundation for studying medicine as a Paramedic.