Coláiste Naomh Cormac

The Leaving Certificate (Established) is a two-year programme that aims to provide learners with a broad, balanced education whilst also offering some specialisation towards a particular career option. Students generally take seven subjects for examination. The type of career a student wishes to follow will influence the combination of subjects he or she will choose to study for the Leaving Certificate. Obviously if a pupil has a talent or interest in a particular subject then that subject should be included in their subject choice. The Guidance Counsellor is available to discuss with individual students the options and requirements of entry to different courses.

Along with the core subjects of Irish, English and Mathematics, students may select a combination of the following subjects:
French, History, Geography, Physics, Chemistry, Agricultural Science, Biology, Engineering, Construction
Studies, Business, Music, Art, Home Economics and Design and Communications and Graphics

Pupils with an aptitude for Art and Music may opt to include these as extra subjects for examination.

All subjects are offered at two levels, ordinary and higher. Irish and Mathematics are available at foundation level also.

Each subject is assessed by an external examination paper at the end of the two-year programme of study. Some subjects are also assessed by additional assessment methods including oral and aural examinations, practical examinations and assessment of practical coursework. Points are awarded relative to the grades a student achieves in a subject. The highest grades attained in six subjects only are recognised for the purpose of allotting a candidate's total points. These points determine, to a very large extent, a student's eligibility for a particular course of further education at a Third Level institution.

The Leaving Certificate is well regarded nationally and internationally, in general terms. It enjoys public confidence in its standards, status and currency.