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.
Naoise Pye, Social Care Worker
What subjects did you take in school and how have these influenced your career path?
I didn't know what I wanted to do when I left school so actually my choice of subjects only reflected my interests (Art, History, French and Classical Studies).
So if I were to do my Leaving cert again I might choose to do home-economics or biology to increase my medical knowledge as well as my cooking and domestic skills!
Kathryn Reeves, Learning and Development Lead
What subjects did you take in school and how have these influenced your career path?
I don't think the subjects that I studied at school or university have turned out to be especially relevant or helpful for my career. Although the process of studying an arts subject did help. For example, the reviewing, planning, analysis that goes into writing essays, and the ability to be able to communicate your point concisely and persuasively in a class presentation, essay or exam.
These skills I use on a daily basis, so it has been more about the skill learned than the subject itself. While I've forgotten most of the maths I learned at school, I have found that percentages, ratios, the presentation of data, and the interpretation of graphs has featured in all roles that I've had.
Liam Ryan , Rooms Division Manager - Mount Juliet Estate
What subjects did you take in school and how have these influenced your career path?
In secondary school, I studied Business and Accounting, which definitely gave me a solid foundation for my career especially when it comes to budgeting, payroll, and understanding the commercial side of hotel operations. I also played team sports, which helped shape me into a strong team player and, over time, a better leader.
One of the great things about hospitality is that so much of the learning happens on the job. It’s an industry that allows you to grow in a way that suits your personality and strengths, whether you’re more guest-facing or operational. Looking back, I’m happy with the choices I made they gave me a good starting point, but the real growth came through hands-on experience