SENIOR CYCLE REDEVELOPMENT

In March 2022, Minister for Education Norma Foley, TD, unveiled her ambitious vision for a reimagined Senior Cycle, Equity and Excellence for All, centered on enhancing the student experience. As part of this plan, she directed the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NCCA) to establish a schedule for reviewing and redeveloping Senior Cycle subjects.

Minister Foley also asked the NCCA to create two new subjects: Drama, Film, and Theatre Studies and Climate Action and Sustainable Development. These additions aim to broaden students' choices, better reflect diverse interests, and nurture a wider range of talents and skills. The rollout of these new and redeveloped subjects will occur in five tranches.

Tranche 1 - 2025

Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Arabic, Latin, Ancient Greek, Business, Climate Action and Sustainable Development, Drama, Film and Theatre Studies.

Tranche 2 - 2026

Accounting, Construction Studies, Engineering, English, Geography, LCVP Modules, Physical Education.

Tranche 3 - 2027

Agricultural Science, Computer Science, Design and Communications Graphic, History, Home Economics, Mathematics, Music, Physics and Chemistry.

Tranche 4 - 2028

Art, Economics, French, Gaeilge, German, Italian, Politics and Society, Spanish, Technology.

Tranche 5 – 2029

Applied Mathematics, Classical Studies, Japanese, Lithuanian, Mandarin Chinese, Polish, Portuguese, Religious Education, Russian.

For further information on Senior Cycle Redevelopment Click HERE

Senior Cycle Overview

Senior Cycle is a two-year programme designed to prepare students for further education, training and the world of work.

Students develop subject knowledge, independent learning skills and prepare for State Examinations and future pathways.

Key Features

• 2-year programme (5th & 6th Year)
• Wide subject choice
• Leaving Certificate preparation
• Includes coursework (AACs)
• Focus on future pathways