Dear GCC Parents, Guardians & Students,
Third Year Information – Transition Year and Leaving Certificate Applied
On Wednesday, 11th November, all Third Year students attended an information session outlining the two Senior Cycle pathways available to them: Transition Year (TY) and Leaving Certificate Applied (LCA).
The presentations provided students with an overview of both programmes, their structure, opportunities and the application processes involved.
1. Transition Year (TY)
Transition Year provides students with an opportunity to develop personally, socially and academically before beginning their Leaving Certificate programme.
The programme offers a broad range of experiences, including:
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Work experience and career exploration.
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Practical, project-based and experiential learning.
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Outdoor activities, trips, guest speakers and workshops.
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Leadership opportunities, community involvement and Gaisce.
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Opportunities to explore different subjects and develop new skills.
New Base Class Groups
New base class groups will be formed by school management. Allocations will take account of gender balance, a range of abilities, a mix of student profiles and the needs of the year group as a whole.
This is an important opportunity for students to make new friendships, develop relationships beyond their existing friendship groups and become part of a new class community. Base class allocations are final and cannot be changed once assigned.
TY Application Process and Important Dates
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Friday, 13th November 2026: Parent/guardian application form issued electronically by text.
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Friday, 27th November 2026: Closing date for online applications.
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Early January 2027: Notification of places.
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End of January 2027: Acceptance forms to be completed.
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End of May 2027: Programme payment of €350 due. A payment link will be issued by the school.
2. Leaving Certificate Applied (LCA)
Leaving Certificate Applied is a two-year Senior Cycle programme undertaken in Fifth and Sixth Year as an alternative to the Leaving Certificate Established.
LCA places a strong emphasis on practical, hands-on learning and the development of skills for adult life, employment and further education.
The programme includes:
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General education and vocational preparation.
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Practical and project-based learning.
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Work experience and career exploration.
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Teamwork, personal development and community involvement.
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A combination of assignments, student tasks, practical projects and examinations.
Students study a range of core subjects and select two vocational specialisms from the options available at GCC, including Graphics and Construction Studies, Technology, Hair and Beauty, and Hotel, Catering and Tourism.
Assessment takes place throughout the two years, with students accumulating credits through attendance, assignments, practical tasks and examinations.
LCA can provide pathways into Post-Leaving Certificate (PLC) courses, further education, apprenticeships and employment.
LCA Application Process and Important Dates
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December 2026: Complete the online LCA application form.
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January 2027: Students will be informed whether they have been offered a place.
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February 2027: Students must confirm acceptance of their place on the programme.
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End of May 2027: Programme payment due. A payment link will be issued by the school.
We encourage all parents and guardians to review the presentations carefully and discuss the available pathways with their son or daughter before making an application.
Both programmes offer valuable opportunities, and it is important that students and parents consider which pathway best suits the student’s interests, strengths and future aspirations.
Please click on the link below to view the presentation;
GCC Senior Leadership Team
Ronan McCarthy (Principal), Caroline Byrne (Deputy Principal), Tom Pittam (Deputy Principal), John Baldwin (Deputy Principal)