The introduction of a brand new subject at a Laois secondary school has been heralded as ‘an ideal step on the pathway to a very rewarding career’.
Computer Science has recently been introduced as a Leaving Certificate subject in Portlaoise College.
It is part of the school’s commitment to embed digital technology in teaching and learning.
It also complements other innovative curricular practices at Portlaoise College such as the introduction of coding at Junior Cycle and the use of tablet devices as an effective teaching and learning tool.
Fifth Year students at Portlaoise College began studying Computer Science in September and will complete 70% of the subject through the May examination in 2023, which will be completed online.
The remaining 30% of marks will be available for a practical project which will be undertaken over a six-week period in school and submitted online.
This is fantastic news for the students of Portlaoise College and further expands its extensive range of senior cycle subjects and STEM related subjects.
The addition of Computer Science brings to the number of subjects on offer for the Leaving Certificate at Portlaoise College to 23.
Computer Science for Leaving Certificate focuses on how programming and computational thinking can be applied to the solution of problems, and how computing technology impacts the world around us.
Speaking about this new offering at Portlaoise College, Noel Daly, Principal, said: “Portlaoise College is very excited to offer students the opportunity to study Leaving Certificate Computer Science.
“Its introduction is part of our commitment to providing the widest subject choice possible.
“As a subject, Leaving Certificate Computer Science will equip students with essential technological skills and know-how which will be hugely beneficial to them in their future careers.”
Darren Stones, Computer Science teacher at Portlaoise College added: “With the growing demand globally for third level computer graduates, Leaving Cert Computer Science is an ideal step on the pathway to a very rewarding career.”
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