5th & 6th Year Leaving Cert Programme

Students cover approximately 75–80% of the examination syllabus during 5th Year, providing a solid foundation for 6th Year revision and exam preparation.

Regular testing and continuous assessment help teachers monitor progress, identify areas for improvement and ensure students stay on track throughout the year.

We understand that starting at a new school is a significant transition. Our teachers introduce subjects from the beginning, helping students establish a strong understanding of the material while settling into their new learning environment.

We also encourage students to build friendships, develop confidence and become part of the Ashfield College community.

Choosing the right subjects can open doors to a wide range of third-level courses and future career opportunities.

At Ashfield College, the 5th year leaving cert programme’s timetable is designed around our students, offering an extensive choice of subjects at Higher and Ordinary level. This flexibility allows students to select a combination that reflects their interests, strengths and future ambitions.

Our Academic Advisors can help students make informed choices, taking account of potential Leaving Certificate points and the subject requirements for their intended third-level courses.

Ashfield College offers an extensive range of Leaving Certificate subjects, giving students the flexibility to create a programme suited to their individual goals.

Available subjects include:

• Accounting
• Agricultural Science
• Arabic
• Art
• Applied Maths
• Biology
• Business Studies
• Chemistry
• Classical Studies
• Design & Communication Graphics (DCG)
• Economics
• English
• French
• German
• Geography
• History
• Irish
• Italian
• Home Economics
• Maths
• Music
• Physics
• Religion
• Spanish

Subjects are available at Higher and Ordinary level, subject to the school’s current timetable and subject provision.

Our Academic Advisors can help students choose a balanced combination that supports their strengths and meets the relevant entry requirements for third-level education.

Our teachers are highly qualified subject specialists with extensive experience preparing students for the Leaving Certificate.

Combining in-depth subject knowledge with a genuine commitment to student success, they deliver engaging lessons and provide guidance tailored to students’ individual needs.

Many of our teachers are published authors of Leaving Certificate textbooks, while others have experience as State Examiners or in teacher training at national level.

Their expertise helps students develop a thorough understanding of their subjects, strengthen exam technique and approach assessments with confidence.

Meet Our Teachers →

Every student benefits from our specially developed Ashfield College study manuals, written by our teachers specifically for use in the college.

Updated annually, these manuals reflect the current Leaving Certificate syllabus and examination papers. They are designed to support classroom learning and help students prepare effectively for assessments and final examinations.

Our manuals include:

• Comprehensive coverage of the syllabus
• Worked solutions to examination questions
• Subject-specific exam techniques
• Targeted revision and practice material

All manuals are included in school fees and are not available to purchase in shops.

Ashfield College combines classroom teaching with extensive online learning resources, helping students access lessons and learning materials throughout the academic year.

All day school and grinds classes are streamed and recorded, allowing students to revisit lessons and review topics whenever they need additional support.

Students also have access to Moodle, where teachers share supplementary learning resources and materials.

Our dedicated IT Team and Support Technicians help maintain a reliable learning environment, while teachers receive ongoing training in online teaching and engagement.

Whether attending in person or online, students have opportunities to participate in lessons, interact with teachers and access the resources they need to support their learning.

Academic progress is only one part of a successful school experience. At Ashfield College, we recognise the importance of supporting students’ wellbeing, confidence and personal development alongside their studies.

Our student support team provides pastoral and academic support, helping students navigate the challenges of senior cycle and make the most of their time at the college.

Discover Student Support & Wellbeing →

We encourage 5th Year students to take part in extracurricular activities that help them build friendships, develop leadership skills and enjoy a strong sense of community.

Activities enjoyed by students have included:

• Careers talks with professionals from leading industries
• Five-a-side football
• Theatre, cinema and art gallery visits
• Hiking and outdoor activities
• Ice-skating
• The annual 5th Year excursion

These experiences complement academic life, giving students opportunities to explore new interests, work as part of a team and make lasting friendships.