Curriculum

Junior Cycle Subjects

We are in a very unique position, in that our students have the opportunity to try all subjects as recommended by the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment. The Junior Cycle places the student at the centre of the learning process, allowing for new ways of learning and a broader range of skills to be assessed. Here in Ballincollig Community School students are given the opportunity to study: 

Leaving Certificate Applied

The Leaving Certificate Applied as its name implies provides a much more “hands on” Leaving Certificate for students who do not wish to take the traditional route. This programme provides a meaningful alternative to those who do not want to pursue an academic career. It appeals to students because it provides them with the opportunity of continuous assessment with an emphasis on teamwork, participation, personal responsibility and social skills. 

During the two-year course, students have the opportunity to participate in four different experiences. This ensures that they really do know which career they would like to pursue at the end of their school years. Subjects such as educational and social environment of the school. The Guidance Counsellor and Special Needs Staff, together with the school Chaplain, provide additional support. 

Vocational Preparation and Social Education prepare students for the outside world. Information Technology, Hotel catering and Tourism, Engineering, Office Administration and Customer Care are practically based modules with an emphasis on task/project work, while traditional subjects such as English, Maths and languages continue to be taught. 

The Leaving Cert Applied programme allows for the recognition of talents and skills, which might not otherwise come to light in a school situation. It provides students with the opportunity to work together in a mature and responsible manner while giving scope to individuality and initiative. Ballincollig Community School has provided the Leaving Cert Applied Programme with great success since 1998. This course has undoubtedly been very beneficial for our students, providing them with access to careers and further education, which might not otherwise have been considered.