Leaving Certificate Vocational Programme. (LCVP)
The Leaving Certificate Vocational Programme (LCVP) is an intervention designed to enhance the vocational dimension of the Leaving Certificate (established). The programme was introduced nationally in 1994 and in Marist College in 2012 in response to the challenges placed on Ireland’s education system by a changing work and business environment. The LCVP combines the academic strengths of the Leaving Certificate (established) 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 cycle.
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 businesses and community enterprises
- Learn from their experiences
Requirements for the Leaving Certificate Vocational Programme, which is of two years’ duration, are as follows:
- LCVP Students must take a minimum of five Leaving Certificate, Subjects (at Higher, Ordinary or Foundation Level) including Irish.
- Two of the above must be selected from one of the designated.
- Vocational Subject Groupings (these are group of L. Cert subjects which link naturally together)
- They must follow a recognised course in a Modern European Language (other than Irish or English)
- They must study two additional Link Modules, Preparation for the World of Work and Enterprise Education.
The Link Modules are activity-based units of study which are designed to help students make connections between school and community, study and future career, enterprise and the business of making a living.
LCVP Students follow the same subject syllabuses and are assessed in the same way as their peers in the Leaving Certificate. For the Link Modules they are assessed by Written Examinations (40%) and by Portfolio of Coursework (60%). The Link Modules are recognised in points terms by Institutes of Technology and by Universities.
Preparation for the World of Work
Research and investigate local employment opportunities; develop your job-seeking skills such as letter writing, CV presentation, interview techniques; gain valuable practical experience of the world of work; interview/work shadow a person in a career area as part of a career investigation.
Enterprise Education
Organise study visits to local business and community enterprises; meet and interview enterprising people onsite and in the classroom; plan and undertake interesting activities that will build self-confidence, creativity, initiative and develop your teamwork, communication and computer skills.