Emma Daniel
JC Cycle Co-ordinator

The Junior Cycle places the student at the centre of the learning process. It allows for new ways of learning and a broader range of skills to be properly assessed.

Principles, Key Skills and Statements of Learning

Underpinning the Junior Cycle are a set of principles, key skills and statements of learning. These will ensure that your child receives a rich educational experience that has both breadth and depth. Your child will have access to a varied curriculum of knowledge, skills and values.

Eight principles for Junior Cycle:

These eight principles underpin and inform the planning for, as well as the development and implementation of, junior cycle programmes in all schools. The eight principles of Junior Cycle are:

• Learning to Learn

• Choice and Flexibility

• Quality

• Creativity and Innovation

• Engagement and Participation

• Continuity and Development

• Inclusive Education

• Wellbeing

What is the Junior Cycle Profile of Achievement (JCPA)?

As part of the Framework for Junior Cycle (2015) the reporting process at junior cycle culminates in the award of the JCPA to students. The school generates the JCPA certificate. It will report on student achievement across a broad range of areas of learning in Junior Cycle. The JCPA, alongside other reporting arrangements in Junior Cycle, will offer students/teachers/parents/guardians a clear, broad picture of a child’s learning journey over the three years of junior cycle. Results of State Examinations, CBAs, Other Areas of Learning and Other Areas of Wellbeing will be outlined in the JCPA.

This certificate will be distributed to students after the appeal process for the State examinations has concluded.

What are Other Areas of Learning?

OALs records student achievement, involvement and participation across a broad range of areas of learning through school-based activities in Junior Cycle. Some examples include sporting activities, charity fundraisers, involvement in school events, school clubs and student leadership roles. Unfortunately, activities participated in outside of school are not allowed to be considered in the JCPA.

All 2nd Years will be given guidance on how to write OALs

The final OALs are to be submitted by students in FORMS at the end of May 3rd Year.