Junior Cycle at Rice College
The Junior Cycle is a three-year programme of learning for students generally aged 12–15. It is based on the Framework for Junior Cycle, which places a strong emphasis on knowledge, skills, wellbeing, assessment and student learning across a broad range of experiences. The framework is underpinned by eight principles and 24 Statements of Learning, with the development of key skills integrated across the Junior Cycle programme.
Subjects and Certification
Junior Cycle students study a maximum of 10 subjects for final examination and reporting through the Junior Cycle Profile of Achievement (JCPA).
Core Subjects
Our Junior Cycle programme includes the following core subjects:
- Irish (Gaeilge)
- English
- Mathematics
- History
- Geography
- Science
- Religious Education
Additional Subjects
Rice College students choose additional subjects as part of the school's Junior Cycle programme.
- Art, Craft and Design
- Business Studies
- Music
- Graphics
- Wood Technology
- Coding and Digital Media Literacy
- Modern Foreign Languages, such as French and Spanish
- Home Economics
Wellbeing
Wellbeing is an integral part of the Junior Cycle programme. Schools are required to provide a minimum of 400 hours of timetabled Wellbeing learning over the three years of Junior Cycle.
The Wellbeing programme is designed around the physical, social, emotional and spiritual dimensions of student wellbeing and is supported by curriculum areas including Physical Education, Social, Personal and Health Education and Civic, Social and Political Education.
Our Wellbeing provision includes:
- Physical Education (PE)
- Social, Personal and Health Education (SPHE)
- Civic, Social and Political Education (CSPE)
- Other Wellbeing learning and activities appropriate to the needs of our students
Assessment and Reporting
Assessment in Junior Cycle combines ongoing classroom-based assessment with state-certified assessment.
Students complete Classroom-Based Assessments (CBAs) during the three years of Junior Cycle. These provide opportunities for students to demonstrate their knowledge, skills and understanding through a range of approaches.
For subjects leading to state certification, students also complete a final state-certified examination. The State Examinations Commission (SEC) is responsible for the state examinations.
The Junior Cycle examination grades are:
- Distinction – 90–100%
- Higher Merit – 75–89%
- Merit – 55–74%
- Achieved – 40–54%
- Partially Achieved – 20–39%
- Not Graded – 0–19%
Level 2 Learning Programme (L2LP)
The Level 2 Learning Programme (L2LP) is a Junior Cycle programme designed for students who may not be able to access some or all of the learning opportunities offered through the Level 3 Junior Cycle programme.
L2LP provides students with a flexible and personalised programme of learning, with a strong focus on developing practical skills, communication, independence and preparation for life beyond school. Learning is organised around a number of Priority Learning Units (PLUs), which support students in developing knowledge and skills that are meaningful and relevant to their individual needs.
The L2LP also places a strong emphasis on Wellbeing, literacy, numeracy and preparation for further education, training, employment and adult life.
Students following an L2LP can have their achievements recognised through the Junior Cycle Profile of Achievement (JCPA). The JCPA provides a broad record of a student's learning and achievement and recognises progress across the different areas of their Junior Cycle programme.
Our school supports students following L2LP through an individualised approach to learning, with opportunities to develop academic, practical, social and personal skills in a supportive environment either in mainstream classes or tailored timetables within our Autism classrooms.
Further Information
For official information about Junior Cycle curriculum, subjects, assessment and reporting, see:
National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NCCA) – Junior Cycle
Department of Education and Youth – Junior Cycle Profile of Achievement
State Examinations Commission (SEC) – Junior Cycle