Junior Cycle
The Junior Cycle is a three-year programme (1st–3rd Year) designed to support students’ learning, personal development and wellbeing. It aims to help young people become confident learners by developing key skills such as communication, problem-solving, creativity and working with others, alongside strong subject knowledge.
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Students study a broad range of subjects for Junior Cycle.
English, Irish and Mathematics are offered at Higher and Ordinary level
Other core subjects studied at common level
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Classroom-Based Assessments take place in 2nd or 3rd year and are an important part of Junior Cycle. CBAs may include projects, oral presentations, practical activities or written pieces and reflections.
CBAs are reported using the following descriptors:
Exceptional
Above Expectations
In Line with Expectations
Yet to Meet Expectations
A timetable of the CBA dates is shared with students each year.
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Final Assessment and Grading
At the end of 3rd Year, students sit a state examination set and marked by the State Examinations Commission (SEC). Final results are reported using grade descriptors, rather than percentages:
Distinction (85% - 100%)
Higher Merit (70% - 84%)
Merit (55% - 70%)
Achieved (40% - 54%)
Partially Achieved (20% - 39%)
Not Graded (0% - 19%)
Students receive a Junior Cycle Profile of Achievement (JCPA), which brings together:
State examination results
CBA descriptors
Other areas of learning, such as short courses, wellbeing and school-based achievements
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which brings together
State examination results
CBA descriptors
Other areas of learning, such as short courses, wellbeing and school-based achievements
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