The Leaving Certificate Applied (LCA) programme in St Vincent’s Secondary School is a two-year, stand-alone Leaving Certificate designed for students who learn best through practical, hands-on experiences. The programme provides students with the opportunity to achieve a recognised Leaving Certificate qualification while developing practical life skills, personal responsibility and preparation for adult and working life.
LCA is particularly suited to students who prefer continuous assessment and practical learning rather than a purely academic approach. It prepares students for progression to employment, further education, training and, in some cases, higher education.
Assessment
Assessment in LCA is based on the accumulation of credits over the two-year programme. Students are assessed in January and June each year and earn credits through:
Completion of seven student tasks (project-based work) Examinations in seven subjects
Achieving a minimum of 90% attendance
Completion of four key assignments per subject module
Subjects
Subjects offered as part of the LCA programme may include:
A minimum 90% attendance is a core requirement of the LCA programme. Absences must be fully justified, with medical certification required for extended or repeated absence.
Holidays taken during the school year are not considered acceptable and may result in the loss of credits.
Application to Classwork
Students are expected to fully engage with all aspects of classwork. Credits are awarded based on effort and application, with students required to complete work to the best of their ability.
Work Experience
Work experience is a central element of LCA. Students are required to organise their own work experience placements and will attend work experience on Fridays during both 5th and 6th Year. It is recommended that students gain experience in at least three different career areas.
For each placement, students must:
Complete a Work Experience Diary Submit an Employer Report Card
Work experience placements are closely monitored, and where possible, a member of staff will visit students in the workplace and liaise with employers.