Visual Art will develop the knowledge, skills and understanding necessary to produce and to engage with authentic and original art, craft and design work. In so doing, they will begin to develop the visual literacy, critical skills and language necessary to engage with contemporary culture. This will contribute to the students’ understanding of the rich and diverse roles of art, craft and design in historical and contemporary societies and cultures.
For students who began first year before September 2017 the Junior Certificate Art, Craft, Design syllabus applies.
For students who began first year in or after September 2017 the Junior Cycle Visual Art specification applies. To support the specification, Assessment Guidelines and Examples of Student Work are provided.
Both can be viewed here
The Junior Cycle Visual Art specification was introduced into schools in September 2017. The development of the specification began in February 2015.
The background paper and consultation report for Junior Cycle Visual Art explores the development of the subject at junior cycle, highlighting good practice at home and abroad and uses evidence-based research to inform the revision of the specification.
- Background Paper for Junior Cycle Art, Craft and Design
- Consultation Report on Background Paper for Junior Cycle Art, Craft and Design
The Visual Art Development Group consists of the nominees from a range of education stakeholders including teacher and management bodies, Department of Education and Skills, and the State Examinations Commission. Reports of development group meetings can be accessed here.
- Report from ACD DG Meeting 1
- Report from ACD DG Meeting 2
- Report from ACD DG Meeting 3
- Report from ACD DG Meeting 4
A draft Junior Cycle Visual Art specification was developed from February 2015 - December 2016. The draft specification and consultation report is available here.