LCVP

Introduction to the LCVP

The Leaving Cert Vocational Programme is designed to enhance the vocational programme dimension of the Leaving Certificate. By participating in the Link Modules it is intended that students will gain a better sense of the world of work and a clearer sense of the direction he/she might take.

Access to the Programme

Students who have specified subject combinations (VSG’s — vocational subject groupings) qualify to engage with the LCVP. The LCVP is made up of two Link Modules (short courses)

These are;

  • Enterprise Education and
  • Preparation for the World of Work

Aims of the Programme

The LCVP provides dynamic focus on self directed learning, innovation and enterprise. Throughout the programme students are encouraged to;

  • Be innovative and enterprising
  • Take responsibility for their learning
  • Adapt to changing circumstances
  • Evaluate data and devise solutions to problems
  • Communicate their thoughts and ideas effectively
  • Work with others as part of a team
  • Investigate and plan career paths
  • Use ICT (Information and communication technologies)
  • Investigate local businesses and community enterprises.
  • Learn from their experiences

What type of Student will benefit from the programme?

This programme benefits;

Students who wish to progress to employment or PLC (Post Leaving Cert) courses in the following ways

  • Completion of CV/Cover Letter/Application Forms
  • Interview Preparation
  • Work Experience

Those wishing to apply through the CAO (Central Applications Office) for college places in IT’s (Institutes of Technology) and Universities. LCVP is awarded parts equivalent to Higher Level papers

  • A Distinction awards 70 points = C1 Higher Level
  • A Merit awards 50 points = D2 Higher Level
  • A Pass awards 30 points = C1 Ordinary Level
For students not taking 7 higher level subjects a distinction or merit is valuable when calculating points. Research has indicated that many students present LCVP as their 6th subject for calculation of these points.

Breakdown of Assessment / Terminal Exam

Terminal Exam (40% of total Marks)

Date: May of final year (6th Year)

Duration: 2 1/2 hours

  • Section A: Audio/Visual Presentation (30 Marks)
  • Section B: Case Study (Received in advance) (30 Marks)
  • Section C: General Questions (Answer four out of six 4×25 Marks) (100 Marks)
    Total 160 Marks

Portfolio of Course Work (60% of total Marks)

Date: Assessed at the end of the final year

Duration: Assembled over the 2 year programme

Core Items

  • Curriculum Vitae (25 Marks)
  • Career Investigation (40 Marks)
  • Summary Report (40 Marks)
  • Enterprise / Action Plan (35 Marks)
Optional Items (2 out of 4 presented)


  • Diary of Work Experience (50 Marks)
  • Enterprise Report (50 Marks)
  • Recorded Interview (50 Marks)
  • Report My Own Place (50 Marks)
  Total 240 Marks

Useful Tips

  • Organize all handouts and file in appropriate sections
  • “Slow and steady wins the race”. Complete the required tasks on time otherwise ‘slow and steady’ becomes ‘stressed out’.
  • Review exam questions after each completed topic/section
  • Equip yourself with a memory sticks to hold all your documents on the computer