The Senior Cycle curriculum (Leaving Certificate) is undergoing significant reform. These developments are guided by, and build upon, the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment’s Advisory Report on the Review of Senior Cycle, together with the reported experiences of Leaving Certificate students themselves.
The reforms are designed to better equip students for the demands of the 21st century, enrich the student experience, support wellbeing, and help reduce stress levels. As part of the Senior Cycle Redevelopment Programme, the Minister for Education and Youth announced the introduction of a revised Transition Year Programme statement in September 2025.
In the coming years, the curriculum across all Senior Cycle subjects will be updated through a phased approach known as ‘tranches.’ During the 2025/2026 academic year, the first tranche of subjects — Biology, Physics, Chemistry, and Business — has seen revised specifications introduced. September 2026 will see the introduction of Geography, Life, Community & Work (formerly LCVP) and Physical Education. The remaining subject groups will follow on a phased basis, with five additional tranches scheduled for implementation up to 2029. See implementation Timeline below for further details.
Each of the newly revised subject specifications will include additional assessment components, referred to as AACs. These AACs will account for a minimum of 40% of the total marks available in each subject and will be administered by the State Examinations Commission. They will be conducted independently by students in accordance with guidelines provided by the State Examinations Commission.
Key Competencies in Senior Cycle
Tranche 1 Subjects September 2025
Tranche 2 Subjects September 2026