Leaving Certificate Modern Foreign Languages

At ETSS Wicklow, students can study Modern Foreign Languages as part of a vibrant and engaging learning experience. The school offers French and Spanish, from Junior Cycle through to Senior Cycle, following the national Leaving Certificate syllabus at Higher and Ordinary Level.

Subject overview

Modern Foreign Languages at ETSS Wicklow support students to develop confidence, cultural understanding and essential skills for future education and employment. French and Spanish are designed around communicative, cultural and linguistic development, with an emphasis on real-world language use across reading, writing, listening and speaking.

The national frameworks in French and Spanish encourage students to use the language for practical communication, deepen their language awareness and understand the cultural contexts of the countries where these languages are spoken. In a student-centred and inclusive learning environment, languages contribute to a holistic education that prepares students to participate fully in a multilingual, globalised world.

Assessment

How students are assessed

Leaving Certificate French and Spanish follow the national syllabus at Higher and Ordinary Level. Students develop language skills across reading, writing, listening and speaking, and are assessed through written and aural components and an oral examination.

Focus of assessment

Oral communication – speaking and interaction
Aural comprehension – listening and understanding
Reading comprehension – reading and responding
Written production – writing for a range of purposes

Assessment components and weightings are set nationally by the SEC for each language.

Skills and learning

Communicative language use

Students learn to use the language in meaningful situations, developing real-world communication skills.

Cultural understanding

Exploring culture, traditions and daily life supports deeper understanding of the target language countries.

Language awareness

Students develop accuracy, confidence and a stronger understanding of how language works.

Listening and reading skills

Students build comprehension skills through a range of authentic and classroom-based materials.

Writing and expression

Students learn to write for different purposes, using appropriate structures and vocabulary.

Confidence and independence

Languages support students in becoming more confident learners and communicators.

French and Spanish at ETSS Wicklow

Two languages, one approach

Both French and Spanish follow the national Leaving Certificate syllabus and are taught through a communicative, student-centred approach that develops skills in speaking, listening, reading and writing.

Modern foreign language teaching and learning at ETSS Wicklow is supported by ongoing professional engagement and collaboration. Teachers regularly participate in national professional learning events and subject-specific networks, contributing to discussions on best practice in language teaching and learning.Engagement at national level ensures that classroom practice is informed by current approaches in language education, allowing students to benefit from high-quality, up-to-date teaching that supports confidence, communication and cultural understanding in Spanish.

French

Higher Level and Ordinary Level
Communication-focused learning and oral practice
Cultural learning linked to French-speaking countries
Preparation for the oral, aural, reading and written components

Spanish

Higher Level and Ordinary Level
Communication-focused learning and oral practice
Cultural learning linked to Spanish-speaking countries
Preparation for the oral, aural, reading and written components

Learning beyond the classroom

ETSS Wicklow participates in the Erasmus+ programme, the EU’s flagship mobility initiative that promotes international opportunities for students and teachers and supports language learning through real intercultural experiences.

Erasmus+ encourages study visits, exchanges and cultural immersion in partner countries, helping students develop language skills, confidence and global awareness. This supports students in practising their language in authentic settings and deepening their cultural understanding, further enriching the student-centred learning that defines ETSS Wicklow.

A positive culture for languages

Modern Foreign Languages at ETSS Wicklow are supported by a positive, inclusive school culture that values communication, collaboration and respect for different languages and cultures.

Language learning is promoted through whole-school initiatives and activities that encourage students to engage with languages in meaningful, enjoyable and authentic ways, helping to build confidence and positive attitudes towards language learning.

Further information

For syllabi and assessment details, visit Curriculum Online:

Interested in Leaving Certificate French or Spanish?

If you would like more information about studying Modern Foreign Languages at ETSS Wicklow, please contact the school office or speak with the French and Spanish teaching team.