The Leaving Certificate Applied programme is a senior cycle programme designed for students whose needs, aspirations and aptitudes are not adequately catered for by the traditional Leaving Certificate programme. It is a student centred programme and is based on active and practical educational experiences.

Aims and Principles of LCA

• Prepares students for the transition from school to that of adult working life.>
• Develops students' responsibility, self-esteem and self-knowledge.>
• Develops students communication and decision making skills.>
• Encourages independence.>
• Focuses on students needs and interests.>
• Active teaching and learning.>

Elements of LCA
LCA is a Senior cycle programme and is two years duration. There are 3 main elements:

• Vocational Preparation>
• Vocational Education>
• General Education>

Subjects Offered in LCA

English and Communications	Arts Education
Mathematical Applications	Science
Social Education	Leisure and Recreation including Physical Education
Sign Language *	Hotel Catering and Tourism
Vocational Preparation and Guidance	Religion
Information and Communications Technology
*(Participants from the deaf community are allowed to study Sign Language as an alternative to Gaeilge and a Modern Language.)

Assessment and Examination
Over the two years the students complete modules in each subject and student tasks. The students accumulate credits, which are allocated as follows:

Satisfactory completion of modules	62 credits	31%
7 student tasks	70 credits	35%
Final Exams	68 credits	34%
At the end of year 2 the students take final examinations in:
English and Communications	Mathematical Applications
Information and Communications Technology	Sign Language
Hotel Catering and Tourism	Social Education
After LCA On completion of the LCA programme students can go directly into employment, on to further education or into apprenticeships. For further information see www.lca.ie