Programmes

The following subjects are compulsory for the Junior Certificate and are available at three different levels. At The Rosses Community School we like to encourage students to aim for the highest possible level. As a result most of our classes are mixed ability rather than strictly streamed. In our experience more students have sat and attained higher level grades as a result of this policy.

• Irish (H) (O) (F)
• English (H) (O) (F)
• Maths (H) (O) (F)
• History/Geography (H) (O)
• French*  (H) (O)
• Spanish* (H) (O)
• CSPE (Civil, Social, Physical Education)

H = Higher, O = Ordinary, F = Foundation
*Except with those with learning difficulties

The following non-exam subjects are also timetabled for Junior Certificate students to provide them with a varied and holistic education:

• Computer Studies
• Physical Education
• Religion
• SPHE (Social, Physical Health Education)
• Careers

Student will also choose 3 other subjects (from the list below). Every effort will be made by the school to allow each student to take the combination of subjects chosen. There are, however, restrictions which might result in some students having to re-select:

• Art
• Science
• Business Studies
• Technical Graphics
• Home Economics
• Woodwork
• Metalwork
• Music

All of the above subjects will be examined at two levels, Higher and Ordinary, in Junior Cert exams. Class size is limited to 24 students for practical subjects and 30 students for academic subjects.

The LCA is a real and practical alternative to the mainstream Leaving Certificate Programme. It is centred around a series of modules and assessment is on a continuance basis. Work Experience is an essential aspect of the course and the LCA is accepted on such prestigious course as the Gardai, The Defence Forces and further education with FETAC progressing to higher education.

LCVP is a separate subject taken for the two years of Leaving Cert studies. It is based around a portfolio of work (60%) and a written exam (40%) taken in advance of the main Leaving Cert. Universities, colleges and ITs all accept the LCVP grade for points purposes. The LCVP provides students with the opportunity to secure significant points in advance of the intensive Leaving Certificate exam. Students also benefit from a practical subject with benefits accruing over the two years rather than simply with a terminal exam.

Transition Year is currently optional for students and is taken after sitting the Junior Certificate exam and before embarking on Leaving Certificate studies. Transition Year provides students with a variety of experiences and opportunities to mature, explore future career options, take up new subjects, participate in national competitions and forge new relationships.