The Established Leaving Certificate
The Established Leaving Certificate is a two-year programme that aims to provide learners with a broad, balanced education while also offering some specialisation towards a particular career option.
Students following the Established Leaving Certificate programme are usually required to study seven subjects, including English, Irish and Mathematics. In general, students take seven subjects for examination.
Syllabi are available in 20 subjects. All subjects are offered at two levels, ordinary and higher. Irish and Mathematics may also be available at foundation level.
Leaving Certificate Subject Options at Coláiste Pobail Setanta
- English (Core)
- Irish (Core)
- Mathematics (Core)
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- French *
- German *
- Technical Graphics
- Spanish *
- Design & Communications Graphics
- History
- Construction Studies
- Geography
- Technology
- Business
- Home Economics
- Religion
- Accounting
- Art
- Economics
- Music
- Computer Science
- PE
- Politics & Society
- LCVP
* Students must choose either French, German or Spanish as a Modern Language is a requirement for most Third Level Institutions.
Assessment
Each subject is assessed by an external examination paper at the end of the two-year programme of study. Some subjects are also assessed by additional assessment methods including oral and aural examinations, practical examinations and assessment of practical coursework.
Irish Leaving Certificate Examination Points Calculation Grid
*Bonus points for Leaving Certificate Higher Level Mathematics will be awarded by some colleges for certain courses. Applicants should refer to college literature for full details.
# Points for Foundation Level Mathematics will be awarded by certain institutions. Applicants should refer to the HEI literature for full details.
Accompanying conditions:
1. The six best results, in recognised subjects, in one Leaving Certificate Examination will be counted for points computation.
2. One sitting only of the Leaving Certificate Examination will be counted for points purposes.
3. In the case of certain subjects, e.g. Home Economics (General), Foundation Level Mathematics or Foundation Level Irish, some HEIs may not award the points shown above. If in any doubt, check with the Admissions Office of the appropriate HEIs.