Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 9 Jun 1998

Vol. 492 No. 1

Written Answers. - Leaving Certificate Examinations.

Richard Bruton

Question:

265 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Education and Science whether the leaving certificate vocational and leaving certificate applied have recognition as part of the points system for entry to third level; and if so, if he will show the points weighted for each subject in these and in the con-ventional leaving certificate in tabular form. [13489/98]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. Martin)

In the leaving certificate vocational programme (LCVP) students generally choose six or seven leaving certificate subjects as permitted in accordance with the requirements of the programme. The points allocated to these subjects for entry to third level are exactly the same as in the case of students who take these subjects in the established leaving certificate. In addition in the LCVP students are required to study three link modules — preparation for work, work experience and enterprise education. At present grades obtained are recognised in place of a sixth subject for points entry to all institutes of technology except for Dublin Institute of Technology (DIT). Discussions are ongoing with Dublin Institute of Technology and the Conference of Heads of Irish Universities (CHIU) for similar recognition.

The points weighting is as follows:

		Points
Distinction Grade	80% – 100%	70
Merit Grade	65% – 79%	50
Pass Grade	50% – 64%	30
Ungraded		–

The leaving certificate applied does not give direct access to third level.

The Commission on the Points System, is currently undertaking a major review, with recommendations, of the present entry system to third level institutions, including its impact at the post-primary level, particularly at senior cycle.