The Leaving Certificate Vocational Programme (LCVP) was introduced in 1994 in response to the challenge placed on Ireland's education system by a changing work and business environment. The LCVP combines the academic strengths of the Leaving Certificate with a new and dynamic focus on self directed learning, innovation and enterprise. This two year programme is part of an expanded provision that aims to cater for the diversity of participants' needs at senior level.

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. Students are encouraged to develop skills and competencies fundamental to both academic and vocational success. They are encouraged to:

*Be innovative and enterprising

*Take responsibility for their own learning

*Evaluate data

*Work with others as part of a team

*Investigate and plan career options

*Investigate local businesses and community enterprises

*Learn from their experiences

These skills and qualities are equally relevant to the needs of those preparing for further education, seeking employment or planning to start their own business.

The requirements for the LCVP programme are:

*At least 5 leaving certificate subjects

*2 of these 5 must be from the Vocational Subject Groupings (VSG)

*Link Modules (Preparation for the World of Work and Enterprise Education)

Students taking the LCVP will have an opportunity to develop and apply their IT skills.

The use of active teaching and learning methodologies is encouraged across the LCVP curriculum. Experiences such as work placement, career investigation, mini-enterprise, business and community visits are an integral part of the programme.

For the LCVP/Link Modules, students are assessed by a Written Examination (40%) and by Portfolio of Coursework (60%). The portfolio is submitted the first Wednesday in March. (It consists of 4 core items and 2 optional items) The written examination takes place the first Wednesdayin May and is of 2.5 hours duration. (It consists of An Audio Visual, A Case Study and 4 General Questions)

The Link Modules are recognised for points purposes by the Institutes of Technology and the Universities.

The points are allocated as follows:

GRADE

Distinction        66 points

Merit                 46 points

Pass                 28 points