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.
Sarah Tuite, AIB Sales Advisor
What subjects did you take in school and how have these influenced your career path?
The subjects I chose in Secondary School were Business Studies, Home Ec, French, Geography and English, Maths and Irish. When I completed further education in Business Management, I always assumed I’d end up somewhere that required numerical skills as I adored everything that involved figures i.e. payroll, spreadsheets, bookkeeping, loan calculations, income, and expenditure. I definitely think Maths and Business has helped influence my career path to date. In Personal Sales we do calculations hourly when it comes to loans and affordability. I think Maths and Business has helped me to succeed in my career.
Deirdre Sayers, Primary School Teacher
What subjects did you take in school and how have these influenced your career path?
I took seven subjects for my Leaving Cert. These were primarily arts subjects with the exception of Biology and Maths.
These subjects were ideal for a B.Ed. Degree course. They would have restricted my entry into the sciences, however. In hindsight I would not have done anything differently for the career path I choose. However, I might have had a wider career path if I had studied a wider base of subjects.
Nicola O'Higgins, Fishmonger
What subjects did you take in school and how have these influenced your career path?
I left school before my Leaving Certificate, which I would not advise. I worked hard at everything I did and constantly tried to up my game.
I would advise to never take no for an answer, to get your foot in the door and work your way to where you want to go. My son is now twenty and is in college and he got great advice from career guidance in school.