Academic Programme
We, at Loreto Balbriggan, expect pupils to aim for high academic standards and are proud of producing consistently excellent examination results. We offer a curriculum that is balanced, integrated and stimulating. The school continues to adapt itself to the educational requirements of a changing world.
Junior Cycle
Students coming into first year take core and optional subjects. Students take any 4 optional subjects. One of these must be French or German. Both languages may be chosen if the student so wishes.
Core |
Optional |
| Irish | Art |
| English | Business |
| Mathematics | French |
| History | German |
| Geography | Home Economics |
| Religion | Music |
| Physical Education | Science |
| Choir | Technology |
| Civic, Social and Political Education |
Senior Cycle
In senior cycle four option subjects must be taken in addition to the core subjects.
Core |
Optional |
| Irish | Accounting |
| English | Art |
| Mathematics | Biology |
| Religion | Business |
| Physical Education | Chemistry |
| Careers | Economics |
| French | |
| Geography | |
| German | |
| History | |
| Home Economics | |
| Music | |
| Physics |
Transition Year
All our students participate in Transition Year. In addition to studying the core subjects and four optional subjects, they also engage in a wide variety of educational activities. These include
A programme of nine-week modules that are constantly revised and updated. Some modules include Self Defence, Health and Beauty, Substance Abuse, Dance, Legal Studies, Environmental Studies, Film Studies, Italian, Spanish and Crime Studies.
Educational trips to a wide variety of destinations including Delphi in Co. Mayo and Co. Monaghan, birthplace of P. Kavanagh, Mountjoy Prison, Armagh Planetarium and the cinema.
Guest speakers talking on a variety of issues such as drugs, politics, the environment and consumer rights.
Participation in one day specialist activities such as Public Access to Law and Rosemary Smith's Driving Course.
Work Experience where students go on three weeks work experience in their chosen career. This experience has been invaluable in helping students prepare for life after school.
A main focus of the year is the Drama production that the students work on for the full year. Recent drama productions have included the Mikado, Calamity Jane and The Pirates of Penzance.
Our Transition Year Programme offers students the opportunity to broaden their educational experience, enhance their skills and develop greater ability in decision making and in personal responsibility. It also provides a strong foundation for the two-year Leaving Certificate programme and enhances examination results.
Computers and Information Technology
We are committed to developing the skills of our students in this area. Accordingly, we have invested heavily in new computers, networking and internet access. European Computer Driving Licence is offered to all our Transition Year students.
