The Leaving Certificate Vocational Programme (LCVP) is an intervention designed to enhance the vocational dimension of the Leaving Certificate (established). The LCVP combines the academic strengths of the Established 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 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.
ASSESSMENT OF THE LINK MODULES
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%).
THE STRUCTURE OF THE WRITTEN EXAMINATION IS AS FOLLOWS:
- Section A Audio Visual Presentation
- Section B Case Study (received in advance by students)
- Section C General Questions (4 out of 6)
- The Portfolio of Coursework accounts for 60% of total marks. Students assemble the portfolio over the two years of the programme and it is assessed at the end of the final year of the Leaving Certificate.
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 |
| Certification |
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.
GRADES FOR THE LINK MODULES ARE AS FOLLOWS:
- Grade Per cent
- Distinction 80% – 100%
- Merit 65% – 79%
- Pass 50% – 64%
THE LINK MODULES ARE RECOGNISED FOR POINTS PURPOSES BY THE INSTITUTES OF TECHNOLOGY AND THE UNIVERSITIES. THE POINTS ARE ALLOCATED AS FOLLOWS:
- Grade Award
- Distinction 70 points
- Merit 50 points
- Pass 30 points
Further details can be found on the Department of Education and Sciences’ website at www.education.ie