In the Junior Cycle, students will study a combination of Full Subjects and Short Courses. Of the Full Subjects, English, Irish, Maths and History are compulsory while all the others are optional i.e. students will choose the remaining subjects during their school’s subject choice process. For students who may struggle at this level, an additional range of subjects known as Learning Programmes has been designed, three at Level 2 and three at Level 1.
Short Courses are typically half the size of full subjects and do not have a terminal exam. Short Courses offered can vary between schools. Wellbeing is central to the Junior Cycle, meaning that subjects such as SPHE, CSPE and PE are also compulsory.
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.
These subjects demonstrate how to explore nature using carefully planned methods, and teach the basic methods and findings of scientific investigation.
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.
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.
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.