Leaving Certificate Vocational Programme

What is LCVP?

The LCVP is a two-year programme that is taken in conjunction with the Leaving Certificate. It is designed to enhance the vocational dimension of the established Leaving Certificate. It combines the academic strengths of the established Leaving Certificate with a focus on self-directed learning, enterprise, work and the community. During the course, students complete a Work Placement, a Career Investigation, an Action Plan and take part in business and community visits. The LCVP is designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the modern workplace.

What is the purpose of LCVP?

The primary goal of the LCVP is to prepare young people for adult life by ensuring that they are educated in the broadest sense, with an ability to cope and thrive in an environment of rapid change. Participants in the programme are encouraged to develop skills and competencies fundamental to both academic and vocational success. Throughout the programme students are encouraged to

• be innovative and enterprising
• take responsibility for their own learning
• adapt to changing circumstances
• evaluate data and devise solutions to problems
• communicate their thoughts and ideas effectively
• work with others as part of a team
• investigate and plan career options
• use information and communications technologies
• investigate local business and community enterprises
• learn from their experiences.

Who can avail of LCVP?

Requirements for the two-year Leaving Certificate Vocational Programme from September 2022 are as follows:

LCVP students

Must take a minimum of five Leaving Certificate subjects (at Higher, Ordinary or Foundation Level) including Irish. Students who are exempt from studying Irish, must take additional subject(s) to ensure that they present a minimum of five Leaving Certificate subjects in their Leaving Certificate examination.

must study the two Link Modules, namely Preparation for the World of Work and Enterprise Education.

How is LCVP assessed?

Assessment, which is at a common level, comprises two elements:

Portfolio of Coursework (60%): Students complete a portfolio of course work over the two years and it must be submitted on the first Wednesday in March of the leaving certificate year. This is worth 60% of their final grade

Terminal Examination Written Paper (40%).

Both are assessed by the State Examinations Commission (SEC).

Certification

LCVP students receive the same certificate as students of the Leaving Certificate (established). An additional statement of the grade received for the Link Modules is appended to the certificate. Grades for the Link Modules are awarded as follows: