Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 6 November 2018
349. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Skills if it is a matter for each school whether the leaving certificate applied programme is offered to the students in respect of second-level schools that have an autism spectrum disorder, ASD, unit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45588/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Leaving Certificate Applied (LCA) programme is one of a number of options made available by my Department for Senior Cycle students which schools can choose from. The LCA programme is a two-year Leaving Certificate programme aimed at preparing students for adult and working life. The programme sets out to recognise the talents of all students and to provide opportunities for developing personal responsibility, self-esteem and self-knowledge, and to help students apply what they learn to the real world.
It is the responsibility and choice of each individual school to decide to put in place the LCA programme, based on the educational needs and interests of their students. It is also for schools to decide on the admittance of a student to the programme in their school. Schools are encouraged to provide maximum access to these options and to have clear procedures in place regarding how the available places are allocated to students.
My Department is committed to supporting this programme, which is appropriate for members of the student cohort whose needs, aptitudes and learning styles are not fully catered for by the other two Leaving Certificate programmes (Leaving Cert Established and Leaving Cert Vocational Programme). That is why I have asked the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment to consider the LCA, as part of its review of Senior Cycle which is currently underway. This review will help to ensure curriculum development continues to respond to the changing needs of learners, society and the economy.
