The ACE Programme
In HCCS we are proud of our academic record and Leaving Certificate results, the overall results this year were of a very high standard with many students securing over 400 points. Equally we had students receiving Distinctions and Merits in our Leaving Certificate Applied Programme. This academic achievement reflects the high standards of teaching and learning and our commitment to improvement and growing our numbers moving to 3rd level education. Over the past three years we have increased the numbers progressing to 3rd level college. Indeed over 80% of the Leaving Cert Class of 2020 have progressed to 3rd level college, with others progressing directly to apprenticeships. In Holy Child Community School Career Guidance begins in second year as we believe that the students benefit from early interventions in planning for the next steps.
College for Every Student
HCCS is part of the College for Every Student (CFES) programme. The aim of CFES is to create and maintain a college going culture in our school. CFES aims to help our students become more aware that going to college is a real possibility . It raises expectations and awareness of the process involved in reaching 3rd level and equips them with the skills they need to enable them to remain in 3rd level. CFES is built upon 3 foundations:
- Pathways to College – Class based and individual career guidance
- Leadership Through Service – involvement in community activities
- Mentoring –mentoring from past students attending college mentoring form student from UCD and Trinity College
The ACE Programme
As part of our focus on progression to 3rd level education the school established an ACE (Accessing College Education) programme in 5thand 6th Year. Students can apply to become part of the group. Criteria for selection include:
- Excellent academic record
- Evidence of engagement in study
- Ambition to progress to 3rd level after 6th year
- Positive attitude towards school, teachers and other students
Students selected for the ACE programme receive the following:
- Loan of a laptop to be returned at the end of 6th Year
- Additional Study classes
- Individual Career Guidance sessions
- Support with revision classes