St Mary's Baldoyle
Co-Educational Secondary School

Senior Cycle English

ENGLISH SENIOR CYCLE

The Leaving Cert. is undergoing alterations but presently;

At Leaving Cert level, the English course aims to develop:

  • The ability to critically analyse information, as preparation for the responsibilities and challenges of adult life;
  • A respect and appreciation for language used accurately and appropriately, and a competence in a wide range of oral and written language skills;
  • An awareness of the value of literature for widening horizons, for enhancing their sense of cultural identity, and for personal enjoyment.

LEAVING CERTIFICATE EXAM - JUNE

PAPER 1 - Ordinary and Higher Comprehending and Composing 2H 50mins

PAPER 2 - Ordinary and Higher Prescribed Texts 3H 20mins

Paper 1 includes learning and writing on composition focused on different language styles.

Also, language techniques and personal response to extracts and short stories.

Paper 2 includes the study of novels, drama, Shakespearean drama, film and poetry.

Higher level English requires an ability to write essay based answers to questions.

Ordinary level is similar to Higher level regarding course content with the exception of studying a Shakespearean text (which is optional).

Ordinary level English is less essay based and poetry based questions allows for the poem to be viewed on the Leaving Cert. paper.

Visit to theatre to view a play related to course

Feb 13
2026
Mock Leaving Certificate Irish Orals
Feb 16
2026
School closes for Mid Term break
Feb 23
2026
School reopens after Mid Term
Feb 23
2026
Science Week
St.Mary's Secondary School
Main St, Baldoyle, Dublin 13, D13W208
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