First Year Option Subject Programme

Students study all option subjects in first year, providing them with an understanding and a strong knowledge base in each subject. For clarity, it should be noted that students begin covering Junior Cycle courses in each of the option subjects from the start of first year; as such, the material studied in first year is fundamental in supporting their continued learning in second and third year. Before starting second year, students select four option subjects to continue studying for the Junior Cycle examinations. If a student later decides to take a subject for their Leaving Certificate (fifth and sixth year) but did not select the corresponding subject in second and third year, the material studied during first year across all option subjects is a valuable asset, maximising their opportunity to pursue the subjects of their choice.

Our unique Subject Option Programme removes the stress of having to choose subjects while in sixth class without having had an opportunity to experience them. The Subject Option Programme also provides students with a real opportunity to discover where their aptitudes lie. It also allows our school to offer a bespoke curriculum for Junior and Senior Cycle based on student preferences rather than fixed option bands.

This innovative approach to option subjects in first year has been commended by students, parents/guardians, and the Department of Education Inspectorate.