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Art Subject Information Visual Art at junior cycle aims to provide the student with a set of personal attitudes and qualities as well as skills and processes and a sense of the aesthetic. Through practical engagement in the areas of art, craft and design students will develop self- confidence, inquisitiveness, imagination, and creativity. ​ The Art course for Leaving Cert is about developing the student's ability in a range of artistic fields and disciplines. The syllabus permits a huge number of media, from the fine arts such as sculpture, drawing, and painting, to puppet-making, embroidery, calligraphy, metalwork, and pottery. ​ Students are expected to spend the duration of the course practicing and developing their skills in several of these areas. 1/5 Department Members Ms Dempsey Ms Tynan Why Study Art? If you want to study more in an artistic area, you can continue in Fine Art and specialise in painting, sculpting or printmaking. Alternatively, you could go into the design area and specialise in areas such as fashion, graphic, interior or furniture design. Studying art, as the title suggests, allows students to be creative and explore their desire for self-expression and develop an appreciation for artistic work of others, including the work of famous artists and the history of art. What kind of Student would Art suit? Students who have shown an aptitude for art, such as by getting high grades in Junior Cert Art. Anyone considering a career in a creative discipline such as Architecture, Marketing, Film and Entertainment, Web Design, Fashion, Game Design, or Advertising. Students who are weak in other areas, such as languages or mathematics, may find it easier to achieve points in Art. Students who enjoy expressing themselves through art and like to sketch and doodle. Students who are prepared to work hard at developing their artistic talent. Students who are looking for a break from intensive memory-work in their other subjects, or to reduce pressure on themselves in June by having a subject with exams in April/May. ​ Tips For most third level art and design courses, a portfolio is required as well as the Leaving Cert. Subject Group: Artistic These subjects involve developing creativity and the appreciation of the work of others. This involves learning the methods and techniques of the subject and producing your own work using these skills. Career Sectors This subject builds skills and knowledge that are particularly useful for careers in the following Career Sectors: ​ Advertising, Marketing & Public Relations Art, Craft & Design Education & Teaching Music & Performing Arts Fashion & Beauty History, Culture & Languages

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Parents Association - Parents' Association Projects < Back to PA Plans are in place to organise the raffle for Virginia College school musical in November 2023. ‘PATI Programme’ – ‘Parenting the Tech - Savvy Child’ is partially funded by the PA. Organised the ‘Uniform Swap’ event. Contributed to ‘Anti-Bullying’ talks. Funded a talk for parents’ and guardians on the role of devices in the life of a teenager, delivered by Richard Hogan. Provided support and prizes for the ‘Virginia College Talent Show’. Presented talks for Parents’ on ‘Open Evening’.

Business Studies Subject Information The specification for junior cycle business studies focuses on improving students' understanding of the business environment and on developing skills for life, work and further study through the three inter-connected strands: Personal finance, Enterprise and Our economy. Leaving Certificate business creates an awareness of the importance of business activity and develops a positive and ethical attitude towards enterprise. The learning experiences in business develop students’ critical thinking, creative and organisational skills while enhancing literacy and numeracy skills using real-life examples. Business provides students with a learning foundation for a wide range of careers in business, marketing, law, enterprise and management. Department Members Mr Mc Cormack Ms Flynn Why Study Business? Business is not specifically required for entry into any third level course but it would certainly be beneficial for candidates who might be interested in courses or careers in the area of finance, enterprise, law and communications. What kind of Student would Business suit? Business will suit a candidate who is interested in current affairs and listens to the news, reads the papers and stays alert to what is happening in the general business world. While there is a fair share of learning of key concepts the ability to apply these concepts in everyday life will be the difference between passing the subject and getting a good mark. While the business concepts are easy to understand, it will be important to show that you can apply the concept to everyday business life. This subject suits someone who has an organised mind and likes to answer questions in bullet points, rather than in long essay format. This subject would be useful to anyone thinking of starting his or her own business in the future. ​ Tips The subject is suited to students who are willing to work hard and caters for all abilities. It is not necessary for students to have studied Junior Certificate Business Studies, but this would be a help. Not necessary to write long essays, answers are presented in bullet points. Course content is factual and requires a lot of learning, containing only a few mathematical elements. Ideally, students would have an interest in business and current affairs and would have an up to date knowledge of economic environment. An organised and consistent attitude to homework and study would be essential in this subject. Subject Group: Business These subjects teach the skills and knowledge needed to understand how business works. Career Sectors This subject builds skills and knowledge that are particularly useful for careers in the following Career Sectors: ​ Advertising, Marketing & Public Relations Business Management & Human Resources Government, Politics & EU Clerical & Administration Music & Performing Arts Fashion & Beauty Banking & Financial Services Tourism & Hospitality Law & Legal Leisure, Sport & Fitness ​

Gaeilge Subject Information Junior Cycle Irish builds upon the language developed during primary education. The learner's vocabulary is both reinforced and enriched at this stage and the language skills (listening, speaking, reading, spoken interaction and writing) are further developed. Leaving Certificate Irish builds on the language skills developed during Junior Cycle. Language skills are further developed towards enabling the learner to take an active part in the bilingual society in which we live in today in Ireland. Students are encouraged to develop and share their views on a range of topics. The learner is also prepared during Senior Cycle for further study in or through Irish. 1/2 Department Members Ms Caffrey Ms Ní Chearra Ms Fulton Ms Uí Fhearghail Ms Mulligan Ms Reilly MS Cosgrove What kind of Student would Irish suit? Studying Irish suits students who liked the language at Junior Cycle, who are interested in speaking the language and like to listen to Irish on the radio and television. With 40% of the exam mark now going for the oral interview, a student really needs to like speaking the language to do well in this subject. ​ Recommendations/Tips ​ It is highly advisable that students spend some time in the Gaeltacht where the language is spoken. A bit of work at higher-level Irish can reap handsome rewards. It had a huge honours rate last year, approx 70 per cent of higher level candidates achieved a H4 or above. Gaeilge also boasts a very low failure rate at higher level. Last year, almost 23 per cent of students were awarded a H1 or H2. Subject Group: Humanities These subjects explore the ways in which humans live and communicate in the world. Human life is examined by looking at our past, our present and into our future. These subjects help people to express themselves clearly and develop their reasoning ability. Career Sectors This subject builds skills and knowledge that are particularly useful for careers in the following Career Sectors: ​ Business Management & Human Resources Government, Politics & EU Education & Teaching Banking & Financial Services Tourism & Hospitality Media, Film & Publishing Sales, Retail & Purchasing Transport & Logistics History, Culture & Languages ​

Graphics Subject Information Graphics is one of the technology subjects offered at junior cycle. In Graphics you will learn how to represent 3-D objects on paper and on computer. You will develop problem solving and creative thinking skills through the solution of graphical problems. Design and Communication Graphics develops students' comprehension ability, and problem solving and creative thinking skills are developed through the analysis and solution of both 2 and 3-dimensional graphics. Graphics and design are communicated using freehand sketching skills, traditional draughting equipment and CAD. 1/3 Department Members Mr Comiskey Mr Keeshan Mr Moran Mr Reilly Mr Sheridan Why Study Design and Communications Graphics? DCG helps to further students’ cognitive and practical skills with modules like graphic communication, problem solving, spatial visualisation, design capabilities, computer graphics and much more. What kind of student would DCG suit? Students who have taken Tech Graphics to Junior Cert level. Students who have a keen interest in further studies in practical areas of engineering and construction, or in apprenticeships which include the study of technical drawings. ​ Recommendations/Tips It is an advantage to have studied Technical Graphics at Junior Cert. level. Free-hand sketching is a main component of the core topics. Therefore, Junior Cert Art, Materials Technology or Wood Technology would serve as an advantage in this area. A basic knowledge of ICT skills is also beneficial. Students must also appreciate that work completed must conform to a high standard of neatness and draftsmanship. Subject Group: Artistic These subjects involve developing creativity and the appreciation of the work of others. This involves learning the methods and techniques of the subject and producing your own work using these skills. Career Sectors This subject builds skills and knowledge that are particularly useful for careers in the following Career Sectors: ​ Construction, Architecture & Property Computers & ICT Engineering, Manufacturing & Energy Art, Craft & Design ​

Transition Year Programme Subject Information The Transition Year (TY) is a one-year programme taken after Junior Cycle and before the two-year Leaving Certificate programme. It is designed to act as a bridge between the Junior Certificate and Leaving Certificate programmes. Transition Year is an optional year for students in Virginia College. 1/2 Programme Co-Ordinator Mr. M Duffy Examination There is no state examination at the end of Transition Year. Assessments are carried out on an ongoing basis and can include school-based assessment of projects or portfolios, oral, aural, practical and written activities. Evaluation of activities such as work experience or community service will often involve the providers or hosts of such activities. Some modules may have their own assessment arrangements. ​ Students in Virginia College study the following subjects in Transition Year: English Mathamatics Gaeilge French Spanish Geography History Music and Drama Religious Education Physical Education Active Leisure Studies Mini Company Career Guidance Road Safety Public Speaking Developmental Studies Art, Crafts and Design Technology Information Technology Coding Design and Communication Technology Construction Studies Engineering Agricultural Science Physics Biology Chemistry Various workshops are held annually such as: Microsoft Office Specialist First Aid Training Irish Water Saftey Swimming Course Mock Interview training Peer Education Programme Graduate.ie Programme Lamh Sign Language Course Gaeilge, French and Spanish oral prepataion Road Safety Prgoramme Drama Workshops Music Technology Workshops Dance Workshops Drumming Workshops Rap Workshops Wheel Chair Basketball ‘TY Fit for Life’ programme Off road biking course BT Young Scientists Young Social Innovators Gaisce President Awards ​ In Virginia College our tranisition year students complete two, two week work experience blocks during the academic year. ​ During the tranistion year programme our students participate in a number of trips: European Ski Trip Gaeltacht Trip History Trips Various educational trips to locations across Ireland ​ Our transition year students have a proud history of running a number of charitable events such as Christmas markets, bake sales and the shoe box appeal and has raised a lot of funds for Irish charities over the years. ​ Our transition year students hard work and dedication is recognised at an award ceremony held annually in May. ​

Mathematics Subject Information The study of Junior Certificate Mathematics encourages the learner to use the numeracy and problem solving skills developed in early childhood education and primary mathematics. The emphasis is on building connected and integrated mathematical understanding. Maths is one of the core subjects. It is compulsory in every school. Project Maths, the current Leaving Cert curriculum, provides students with the opportunity to gain an understanding of and familiarity with several branches of mathematics, as well as developing their overall appreciation of the subject. The branches, or ‘strands’, of the course have been chosen because they have applications in everyday life, are useful in other disciplines, and provide a foundation for further education. As a result, maths is very accessible to students at all levels. Department Members Ms Carolan Ms Gaffney Ms Flynn Mr Hand Mr Larkin Ms Mc Quade Ms Oates Ms Rogers Mr Tynan Ms Barry Why Study Mathematics? As a wide-ranging subject with many fields and applications, maths gets used everywhere, and everyone can find some use for it. For students, it opens doors to careers. For citizens, it enables informed decisions. For nations, it provides knowledge to compete in a technological community. No longer just the language of science, maths contributes in direct and fundamental ways to business, finance, health and defence. Whether it’s managing your monthly budget or a part of your job, mathematics has a place in everyone’s life. ​ Recommendations/Tips Mathematics is available for study at three levels, Foundation, Ordinary, and Higher. Each level covers everything in the levels below it. Students are encouraged to study at the level appropriate to their needs and aspirations. Securing a minimum of a pass mark on an Ordinary level paper is necessary for entry into the majority of third level college courses. There are many careers which require or benefit greatly from having a Higher level of mathematics, and it’s a good idea to research these before coming to a decision. Subject Group: Science These subjects demonstrate how to explore nature using carefully planned methods, and teach the basic methods and findings of scientific investigation. Career Sectors This subject builds skills and knowledge that are particularly useful for careers in the following Career Sectors: ​ Construction, Architecture & Property Biological, Chemical & Pharmaceutical Science Biomedical Technologies & Medtech Computers & ICT Earth & Environment Engineering, Manufacturing & Energy Physics, Mathematics & Space Science Healthcare Government, Politics & EU Accountancy & Taxation ​

Science Subject Information The specification for junior cycle science focuses on the development of students' knowledge of and about science through the unifying strand, Nature of science, and the four contextual strands: Physical world, Chemical world, Biological world, and Earth and space. 1/2 Department Members Ms Barry Ms Cooney Mr Flanagan Ms Coyle Ms Ryan Mr Hynes Mr Larkin Ms D Smith Mr Tynan Miss O Keeffe Agricultural Science Agricultural science is the study of the science and technology underlying the principles and practices of agriculture. Plants and animal types associated with agriculture are studied, and investigations are undertaken into such aspects as soil, ecology, plant and animal physiology, farm crops, farming practices, genetics and microbiology. Why Study Agricultural Science? Agricultural Science remains a very popular subject among students in Ireland and reflects our agricultural background. This subject proves popular among students who are planning to study Veterinary Science, Science or Medicine in college. What kind of Student would Agricultural Science suit? Some experience of farming would be desirable. Subject Group: Science ​ These subjects demonstrate how to explore nature using carefully planned methods, and teach the basic methods and findings of scientific investigation. Career Sectors ​ This subject builds skills and knowledge that are particularly useful for careers in the following Career Sectors: Farming, Horticulture & Forestry Animals & Veterinary Science Earth & Environment Food & Beverages ​ Biology Biology is the study of life. Through the study of biology students employ the processes of science to explore the diversity of life and the inter-relationships between organisms and their environment. They become more aware of the use of living organisms and their products to enhance human health and the environment. Why Study Biology Biology is a popular subject and is the study of life. It requires a lot of memory work so is a good choice for students with attention to detail and excellent memory work. Many courses require at least one science subject and some even require two (see third level entry requirements). Therefore, it is a good idea to have at least one science subject to keep your options open. Those considering medicine, nursing and related courses will find that this subject will be of huge benefit in their studies. ​ What kind of student would Biology suit? Students who enjoyed science for Junior Cert might wish to consider studying biology at Senior Cycle. The course is a continuation of what was studied at Junior Cycle but in more detail. It is particularly suited to students who have scored highly in the Naturalist and Investigative areas in their interest test. Recommendations/Tips ​ It is recommended that a student taking Leaving Certificate Biology has a good understanding of Junior Science at Higher level. Each student must have an aptitude and interest for laboratory work. A considerable amount of learning and study is necessary to do well in this subject Subject Group: Science These subjects demonstrate how to explore nature using carefully planned methods, and teach the basic methods and findings of scientific investigation. Career Sectors ​ This subject builds skills and knowledge that are particularly useful for careers in the following Career Sectors: Animals & Veterinary Science Farming, Horticulture & Forestry Food & Beverages Maritime, Fishing & Aquaculture Biological, Chemical & Pharmaceutical Science Earth & Environment Physics, Mathematics & Space Science Leisure, Sport & Fitness Healthcare Psychology & Social Care ​ Chemistry Chemistry exists everywhere, not just in laboratories, but in every living thing on land and sea and in our bodies. Chemistry is often described as 'the central science' containing a lot of formulas. So, if you enjoyed Junior Cert Science and have done well in it, and in Maths, you should be a good candidate for Leaving Cert Chemistry. Why Study Chemistry This subject aims to provide a relevant course for students who will complete their study of chemistry at this level while, at the same time, providing a foundation course for those who will continue to study chemistry or related subjects following completion of their Leaving Certificate. Chemistry is considered most useful for careers in Pharmacy, Ag Science, Medicine, Engineering, General Sciences and Biotechnology. What kind of student would Chemistry suit? If you enjoyed Junior Cert Science and you have done well in this and in Maths, you should be a good candidate for Leaving Cert Chemistry. If you apply attention to detail and are able to describe the procedures of experiments and understand vocabulary. Students considering a career in any scientific discipline, such as chemistry, biology, environmental science, medicine, pharmacology, or material science. Recommendations/Tips It is recommended that a student undertaking the chemistry course has a good understanding of Junior Cert Science at Higher level. Each student should have an aptitude for and an interest in laboratory work. A student would be expected to have a reasonable level of Junior Cert Maths, either at Higher or Ordinary level. Subject Group: Science These subjects demonstrate how to explore nature using carefully planned methods, and teach the basic methods and findings of scientific investigation. Career Sectors ​ This subject builds skills and knowledge that are particularly useful for careers in the following Career Sectors: Animals & Veterinary Science Farming, Horticulture & Forestry Food & Beverages Maritime, Fishing & Aquaculture Biological, Chemical & Pharmaceutical Science Biomedical Technologies & Medtech Physics, Mathematics & Space Science Healthcare Fashion & Beauty ​ Physics Physics describes the laws and forces that govern natural phenomena. The subject aims to enhance students ability to think logically, to observe, to understand scientific method and to communicate effectively. It offers a general education in physics for all students. Science, Technology and Society (STS) is an integral part of the syllabus so that students can be aware of the principles of the applications of physics in the everyday world. Why Study Physics Physics contributes to a student’s future career in many ways. It helps, in conjunction with the other Leaving Certificate subjects, to provide a broad, balanced education for any student. Physics teaches students to think logically and enables them to express their thoughts in a concise manner. The skills and knowledge developed through their study of physics can be useful in a wide variety of situations. What kind of student would Physics suit? Students who wonder why and ask how Students who are interested in the following careers would be advised to study Physics: Electrician, Optician, Doctor, Dentist, Engineer, Computer Technician and Programmer. ​ Recommendations/Tips While there is an element of maths in the physics course, honours maths is not a requirement to do honours physics. Students should not avoid physics on the basis of not having honours maths. It is entirely possible to get on well in honours physics without honours maths. Pupils should become capable at drawing and reading graphs and competent in using a calculator through the course. The physics syllabus has strong links with the other science subjects, especially chemistry. There are strands of physics which overlap with woodwork and construction, especially the electricity and heat sections. Pupils who will gain the most from studying physics are those who have an interest in science at Junior Cert level and those who enjoy learning about how things work. The science, technology and society section allows students the chance to see where the physics they are learning applies as in TVs, car motors and electricity in the home and also, to see some of the industrial applications of certain topics. For students who are interested in proceeding further with physics, check out our sector on Physical and Mathematical Sciences, and also the Institute of Physics, which provides information on the range of career options that students can follow after physics at third level. Subject Group: Science ​ These subjects demonstrate how to explore nature using carefully planned methods, and teach the basic methods and findings of scientific investigation. Career Sectors This subject builds skills and knowledge that are particularly useful for careers in the following Career Sectors: Farming, Horticulture & Forestry Biological, Chemical & Pharmaceutical Science Computers & ICT Healthcare Engineering, Manufacturing & Energy Physics, Mathematics & Space Science Earth & Environment Biomedical Technologies & Medtech ​

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