In 2014, the new Junior Cycle was introduced into Irish schools. This included developing subjects and short courses that has a significant focus on key skills and wellbeing. 

Eight principles underpin the Framework for Junior Cycle (2015). These principles form the basis of the development and implementation of Junior Cycle Programme in St Andrew's College.

The 24 Statements of Learning

The learning at the core of the new junior cycle is described in twenty-four Statements of Learning. In St Andrew’s College, teachers are engaged in subject-planning as part of their commitment to ensure that all statements of learning, along with literacy and numeracy and other key skills, feature in the programmes for all Junior Cycle students.

Key Skills

There are six Key Skills required for successful learning by students:-

• Managing Myself

• Staying Well

• Communicating

• Being Creative

• Working with others

• Managing Information and Thinking

The Junior Cycle Grading System

Written Paper

Distinction 90 - 100

Higher Merit 75 - 89

Merit 55 - 74

Achieved 40 - 54

Partially Achieved 20 – 39

Classroom Based Assessment/Short Courses

Exceptional 

Above expectations

In line with expectations

Yet to meet expectations

Not reported

Junior Cycle Profile of Achievement (JCPA)

The JCPA will be issued by the College and will include information on:-

• Classroom based Assessments: subjects & short courses

• Grades received in subjects (includes Assessment Task & Final exam)

• Other Areas of learning – Extra curricular / Co-Curricular activities

• School will produce Junior Cycle Profile of Achievement for each student

This is an example of the JCPA.