Ireland · NCCA Curriculum Specifications
6th Year Social Education.
Social Education in the Leaving Certificate Applied programme prepares students for active, participatory citizenship. It explores contemporary social issues, human rights, and the transition to adult and working life in Ireland and the wider world.
01Contemporary Social Issues in Ireland
An exploration of current social, economic, and cultural issues affecting Irish society today.
Investigating the causes and impacts of the housing shortage and homelessness in modern Ireland.
Examining the changing demographic of Ireland and the importance of promoting an inclusive society.
Analyzing how traditional and social media shape public opinion and the dangers of fake news.
02Social Problems and Community Responses
Identifying significant social problems and evaluating how communities and the state respond to them.
Understanding the social and personal impacts of drug and alcohol abuse within communities.
Exploring the causes of crime, the role of An Garda Síochána, and the Irish penal system.
Investigating the cycle of poverty and the distribution of wealth in Irish society.
03Transition to Adult and Working Life
Preparing students for the rights, responsibilities, and practicalities of adulthood and employment.
Learning about the legal rights of workers, health and safety regulations, and trade unions in Ireland.
Developing essential skills for budgeting, understanding taxation (PAYE, PRSI, USC), and financial planning.
Understanding the Irish electoral system and the importance of participating in the democratic process.
04Ireland, Europe, and the Wider World
Examining Ireland's role within the European Union and its responsibilities regarding global development issues.
Exploring the history of the EU, its institutions, and how EU membership impacts daily life in Ireland.
Investigating the divide between the Global North and South, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Analyzing the global climate crisis and the actions required at local, national, and international levels.