Overview
In March 2022, Norma Foley, TD announced ambitious plans for a reimagined Senior Cycle titled Equity and Excellence for All. This new approach places the student at the centre of their learning experience, with a focus on flexibility, choice, and preparing students for life beyond school.
What is Changing?
The redevelopment introduces new and updated subjects in phases (known as tranches) over a number of years.
- Greater emphasis on student choice and wellbeing
- A mix of continuous assessment (AACs) and final exams
- New subjects reflecting modern skills and global challenges
Changes to How Students are Assessed
As subjects are reviewed, each one will include new assessment components that are not a traditional written examination. These components assess key skills and competencies in ways written exams cannot.
These are called AACs (Additional Assessment Components) and may include research projects, oral assessments, performances, portfolios, artefacts, field studies, or practical investigations. These will account for at least 40% of marks and are externally assessed by the State Examinations Commission (SEC).
Subjects below indicate those currently offered in Swords Community College.
Tranche 1 Subjects (From 2025)
Tranche 2 Subjects (From 2026*)
| Accounting* |
| Construction Studies |
| Engineering |
| English* |
| Geography |
| LCVP Link Modules |
| Physical Education |
*Some subjects postponed until at least September 2027.
Tranche 3 Subjects (From 2027)
| Computer Science |
| Design and Communication Graphics |
| History |
| Home Economics |
| Mathematics |
| Music |
| Physics and Chemistry |
Tranche 4 Subjects (From 2028)
| Art |
| Economics |
| French |
| Irish |
| Politics and Society |
| Spanish |
| Technology |
Tranche 5 Subjects (From 2029)
| Applied Mathematics |
| Classical Studies |