The Leaving Certificate Vocational Programme (LCVP) is an intervention designed to enhance the vocational dimension of the Leaving Certificate (established). The programme 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 (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
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 LCVP at Galway Community College is a two year programme that works alongside the Leaving Certificate. Students study a subject called link modules that helps prepare them for the world of work and becoming an entrepreneur. LCVP students follow the same subject syllabi and are assessed in the same way as their peers in the Leaving Certificate. For the Link Modules they are assessed by Written Examination (40%) and by Portfolio of Coursework (60%).
LCVP students receive the same certificate as other Leaving Certificate students but their Certificate includes an additional statement of the results of the Link Modules & students who complete this course should be more employable, flexible and enterprising as they join the workforce.
LINK MODULES – PORTFOLIO OF COURSEWORK
CORE ITEMS
Curriculum Vitae
Career Investigation
Enterprise/Action Plan
Summary Report
OPTIONAL ITEMS (any two)
Diary of Work Experience
Enterprise Report
Recorded Interview/Presentation
Report on My Own Place
Students complete one week of work experience in fifth year and some visits out to local enterprises. Also visits in from local charities take place too.
The Link Modules are recognised for points purposes by the Institutes of Technology and the Universities. The points are allocated as follows:
Grade University and Institutes of Technology Award
Distinction 66 points
Merit 46 points
Pass 28 points