Currently, I am in the process of completing my Leaving Cert Applied (LCA), with just one more examination to undertake in horticulture this Wednesday. The LCA isn’t universally understood or provided in every educational institute.
Given my personal preferences and experiences, the LCA was an apt choice. Similar to numerous other learners, I wasn’t able to participate in the Junior Cycle exams because of their cancellation amidst the pandemic. My subsequent year in transition was rewarding, offering a more hands-on, life-experience-focused approach than traditional secondary education.
I wasn’t enthralled by the idea of returning to heavy academic learning. I always believed in the effectiveness of practical learning over theoretical content found in textbooks. Discussing this with a teacher led me to discover the LCA, which prioritises real-world skills and experiences over strict academia.
I saw this as an advantageous opportunity, notwithstanding the possibility of a year’s gap between school and university to complete a post-Leaving Cert programme. In fact, even academic high-achievers are opting for a PLC as a school-university intermediary.
I gained hands-on experience every Friday at Explorium, a sports and science hub for children in Sandyford, Co Dublin, along with practical in-school lessons on budgeting, holiday planning, car maintenance etc. Rather than putting all weight on final exams, many assessments were accounted for in the final grading.
In countries such as Germany, vocational pathways in education are commonplace, and these pupils often end up with higher earnings. This learning journey has been less taxing for me compared to conventional Leaving Cert students, although I’ve still had to dedicate time to studying, just less vigorously.
I’ve appeared for English and communication, social education, French, maths, and hotel catering and tourism exams so far. I’ve also culminated projects in non-examinable courses like art, IT, science, and Irish (which I thrived in due to my tenure in a Gaelscoil).
Beyond academics, I’ve been accepted into a portfolio preparation course that I aspire will pave my way into an animation course at IADT.
The summer is next on the agenda after the exams. I’ve organised a trip with some mates to the UK for ten days, following the conclusion of my papers. In addition, I will continue my employment at Explorium, a role that has provided me with immense joy and invaluable lessons.
Presently, it’s time for me to cast my first vote as I just turned 18 a couple of days subsequent to the family and care referendums. My decision regarding my preferred candidate is quite firm already. Juggling the completion of exams with work, anticipating university, and being a first-time voter have all culminated in me feeling significantly mature and responsible.