St. Mary's Secondary School
Ballina

Leaving Certificate

Leaving Certificate

Leaving Certificate Curriculum

Preparing students for further education, employment and lifelong learning.

St. Mary's Secondary School offers an extensive range of Leaving Certificate subjects to meet the interests, talents and aspirations of all students.

Students study a combination of core subjects together with four optional subjects, allowing them to build a programme suited to their future pathways.

Core Subjects

  • Irish
  • English
  • Mathematics
  • Physical Education
  • Religious Education
  • Career Education

Subject Choice

Students choose four optional subjects from the range below. Every effort is made to secure each student's preferred subject combination.

Guidance is provided through both class programmes and individual meetings with the Guidance Counsellor.

Optional Subjects

Geography
Accounting
German
Art
History
Biology
Home Economics
Business
Music
Chemistry
Economics
Physics/Chemistry
French
Design & Communication Graphics
Technology

Life, Community & Work Programme

All students also participate in the Life, Community & Work Programme, providing an enhanced Leaving Certificate experience through personal development, community engagement and preparation for life beyond school.

Levels Available

  • All subjects are offered at Higher and Ordinary Level.
  • Irish and Mathematics are also available at Foundation Level.

Student Support

  • Every effort is made to accommodate preferred subject choices.
  • Career Guidance is available both individually and in class.
  • Students are supported in choosing subjects appropriate to their interests and future goals.

For further information on Senior Cycle Redevelopment, please Click here

For further information on Leaving Certificate subjects, syllabi and specifications, visit the NCCA Curriculum Online website.

28-Jun-2026
As our Leaving Certificate and Junior Cycle students complete their State examinations, everyone at St. Mary's Secondary School would like to congratulate them on reaching this important milestone.
23-Jun-2026
Congratulations to Grace Cunnane, who has been placed second in the International Young Reporters for the Environment
© 2026 St. Mary's Secondary School