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.
Brian Kelly, Science Entrepreneur
What subjects did you take in school and how have these influenced your career path?
I did the following subjects for my Leaving Cert: Irish, English, Maths, French, Physics, Chemistry, Accounting and Applied Maths.
When choosing my subjects in 5th year in School I deliberately ensured that I did at least one business and one science subject because this gave me more flexibility in my choice of courses. I would recommend this strategy - particularly for those who aren't sure what they wish to study in college.
Catherine O'Grady Powers, Owner Gleenkeen Farms
What subjects did you take in school and how have these influenced your career path?
I loved Business Organisation and French, these 2 subjects have really helped me in my business. My Business Org teacher, Carmel Featherston was very influential in my path on the business route, she really believed in me and even took time out after school to take me over to GMIT Castlebar to a talk on a career in Business! This really inspired me and made me feel empowered on choosing route in Business. I also took a typing course which, I use every day and am most thankful for!
I am now taking tin whistle lessons to broaden my skills in the business and I think it would be really nice to play some nice tunes for our guests on an adhoc basis or perhaps out in the field on a nice day after I deliver the Sheepherding experience for them. My motto has always been ‘Under promise, Over deliver’ this leaves your customers with lasting memories.
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.