Senior Cycle Key Competencies

Key competencies is an umbrella term referring to the knowledge, skills, values and dispositions students develop during senior cycle. Learning is deeper when students draw upon, integrate and apply these competencies to various tasks, contexts, situations and events. Student development of key competencies is very important as they prepare for adult life. 

The key competencies build on important learning from early childhood, primary and junior cycle. The seven competencies are:

• Thinking and solving problems 
• Being creative 
• Communicating 
• Working with others 
• Participating in society 
• Cultivating wellbeing 
• Managing learning and self. 

These are linked and can be combined, helping students and teachers to make meaningful connections between and across different areas of learning. They can improve overall student learning and help young people to become more engaged, enriched and competent learners.

Key competencies are integrated into the learning outcomes in the new and revised subject specifications and modules. They come to life through the learning experiences and pedagogies teachers choose, and through students’ responses to them. 

NCCA has published a number of materials to support the introduction of key competencies. These include the key competency document which sets out how students will develop and apply the competency, and describes characteristic learning and development opportunities for students. The website also includes research reports, an introductory video and support materials with reflective questions which schools and subject departments may find useful as they prepare for the implementation of redeveloped/new senior cycle specifications. Posters have also been distributed to schools. For further information see https://ncca.ie/en/senior-cycle/senior-cycle-redevelopment/student-key-competencies/