Two Mayo schools to introduce new subjects

Two schools in Mayo are among 100 post-primary schools selected to introduce new Leaving Certificate subjects from the start of the 2025/26 school year.

Among the 57 schools selected to introduce Leaving Certificate Drama, Film and Theatre Studies is Sancta Maria College in Louisburgh. Additionally, Jesus & Mary Secondary School in Crossmolina is one of the 43 schools selected to introduce Leaving Certificate Climate Action and Sustainable Development.

The introduction of new Leaving Certificate subjects to schools across the nation is phase one of the Senior Cycle Redevelopment Programme announced by the Minister for Education, Norma Foley TD, in 2022.

Minister Foley explained: “These subjects are being introduced to provide greater choice for students to better reflect their range of interests and support the development of a wider range of talents and skills.” Each application to participate in phase one was assessed by two selection committees consisting of members from the Senior Cycle Redevelopment Programme Management Office, Oide, NCCA and the Inspectorate.

“The applications received demonstrated the extraordinary talent, qualifications, experience, and commitment by teachers in schools across Ireland interested in introducing these two new subjects to their students,” Minister Foley said.

“The level and variety of current subject provision in the selected schools and the enthusiasm shown by their school leaders, teachers, students and school communities was nothing short of exemplary and I have every confidence that the rollout of both subjects will be a success.” 

All of the selected schools will be provided with the necessary resources to establish new subject departments and teachers will begin working with Oide, the teacher support service, this year.