The Leaving Certificate Applied (LCA) is an alternative to the traditional Leaving Certificate in Ireland, designed for students who prefer a more practical and hands-on learning experience.
Key Features of the LCA:
- Practical and Vocational Focus: LCA emphasizes hands-on learning through subjects like Hotel, Catering and Tourism, Engineering, Office Administration, and more. It includes real-life applications and work experience, making it suitable for students who are more interested in immediate employment or vocational training.
- Continuous Assessment: Unlike the traditional Leaving Certificate, which is primarily exam-based, LCA assesses students throughout the two-year program. This includes project work, tasks, interviews, and written assignments. The focus on continuous assessment provides a broader view of the student's abilities.
- Work Experience: A core element of LCA is work experience, which is typically done one day per week throughout the program. This gives students valuable insights into the working world and often leads to employment opportunities after completing the program.
- Personal and Social Development: LCA places a strong emphasis on personal development through modules like Social Education, which includes activities aimed at fostering personal responsibility, social awareness, and citizenship.
- Qualification and Progression: Upon completion, students receive the Leaving Certificate Applied qualification, which is different from the traditional Leaving Certificate. While LCA does not provide direct access to most university courses, it allows progression to further education through Post-Leaving Certificate (PLC) courses, apprenticeships, or training programs, with pathways to higher education available through alternative routes.
The LCA provides a flexible, student-centered approach that values practical skills, making it an excellent option for students looking to enter the workforce or pursue vocational training directly after secondary school.
Wilson's Hospital School offers the following LCA subjects to students, Mathematical Application, English & Communication, Social Education, Leisure & Recreation, Religion, Vocational Preparation, Graphics & Construction, Horticulture, Art, Music, Information Technology, Irish and French.