The Life, Community and Work (LCW) Programme is a Leaving Certificate Programme launched in September 2026 to incoming 5th year students. It places a strong emphasis on work readiness, enterprise, and real-world learning experiences.
Replacing the former Leaving Certificate Vocational Programme (LCVP), LCW is designed to help students make meaningful connections between their Leaving Certificate subjects and the skills, knowledge, and attitudes required for further education, training, and employment.
LCW students follow a full programme of Leaving Certificate subjects, alongside a dedicated LCW course that focuses on enterprise education, career development, and preparation for the world of work. The programme supports students in developing key transferable skills such as communication, teamwork, critical thinking, problem-solving, and self management.
A central feature of LCW is its practical, student‑centred approach to learning. Students are encouraged to apply their classroom learning to real‑life contexts through activities such as work experience, local labour market investigations, personal statement development, and engagement with local businesses and organisations. This applied learning helps students understand how education relates directly to the changing world of work.
Assessment in LCW places a strong emphasis on developing an ongoing digital portfolio of learning, alongside a final written examination. This approach recognises a broader range of student strengths and supports active, experiential learning throughout the Senior Cycle.
The programme provides a strong foundation for students progressing to higher education, apprenticeships, training, or employment, while promoting confidence, adaptability, and lifelong learning skills.