Offering Computer Science as a Leaving Cert subject from September
Colaiste na Riochta are delighted to announce that the Department of Education and skills has chosen our school to be part of phase 1 of the introduction of Computer Science at Leaving Certificate from September 2018. This is a great opportunity for all our students. We are one of 40 schools (the only one in Kerry!) across the country that are due to begin offering the subject next year, with the first Leaving Cert exam in Computer Science set to take place in June 2020.
STEM education involves a cross-disciplinary approach to teaching around the following four disciplines, Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. In Colaiste na Riochta the promotion of STEM is a priority, which is why all our Junior Cycle students study Maths, Science, Metalwork, Woodwork and Digital Literacy. We believe that through engagement in these subjects our students develop skills to enable them to be active citizens, ensure
personal well-being, engage with modern communications and media in a critical way and make informed and ethical choices.
At Leaving Certificate our students have access to a wide range of STEM subjects; Maths, Engineering, Construction, Design & Communication Graphics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Ag. Science and now Computer Science! A key goal for our school is to provide learners with exciting opportunities and deep learning experiences that enable them to be resourceful and confident in engaging with STEM concepts in school and in their future lives.
As the Minister for Education & Skills, Mr. Richard Bruton said, ‘’Employer bodies have been calling for the introduction of computer science at Leaving Certificate level, to equip school-leavers with a foundation in what is an essential skill for the modern world and one that is much in demand in the workplace.’’ Minister Bruton also stated “There is a digital revolution taking place which is having a transformative effect on our economy, workplace, and lifestyle.”
Pictured: Ms Lynch (teacher), Minister for Education & Skills Richard Burton with Principal Stephen Goulding at the Launch.
