Introduction (from the Teacher!)
Choosing Applied Maths is a decision, not a default. It is a brilliant subject for students who enjoy problem-solving, patterns, and the “why” behind formulae. It is also a commitment. How you take the subject will shape your experience. Whether you begin in Transition Year, take it as one of your optional subjects during the timetable, add it as an external subject in Fifth Year, or take it up in Sixth Year.
This page collects short written and video pieces from students who have taken Applied Maths in different ways. They explain why they chose it, how they managed the workload alongside other subjects, and what they would do differently if they were starting again. Some students started in Transition year, some studied it as an additional eighth or ninth subject, others had Irish exemptions and carried it as a seventh subject with a little more room in the timetable. A few began in Sixth Year and made it work under tight time constraints.
If you are in 3rd year or TY choosing your senior-cycle subjects, these experiences might help you decide whether Applied Maths fits your interests and your week. If you are a teacher or parent, you will find practical insights on timetabling, pacing, and the support that makes the biggest difference.
I hope you find this useful! Thank you to all students who took the time to share their experiences. And if you are a current or past Applied Maths student I would love to hear from you! Email me on sarah@expandingminds.ie.
Alannah (5th Year – LC2027)
I took Applied Maths during Transition Year and I’m really glad I did. It made me realize how much I actually enjoy maths, and it’s had a huge impact on me. It bridged the gap between Junior Cycle and Senior Cycle maths, and kept me engaged in my studies. At first, I found it difficult in Transition Year, but now that I’m in fifth year, I can already see how much more confident I feel with it compared to last year.
Zofia (LC 2025)
I started Applied Maths in 4th year with Ms. Tallon as a way to see if it was something I would be interested in. I really enjoyed the classes and decided to choose Applied Maths as a Leaving Certificate subject. The added workload was not as heavy as I expected it to be. Studying Applied Maths was a nice break from essay-heavy subjects that I did not enjoy as much. Ms. Tallon made the classes enjoyable and helped my love of Maths grow. As a student who enjoys Maths, taking Applied Maths for the Leaving Certificate benefitted me greatly and helped me get the course I wanted in third-level education. I would recommend Applied Maths to every student who enjoys working with numbers. Applied Maths encouraged me to research Engineering at third level, and it is the reason I chose my current course. Ms. Tallon is a great teacher who encourages students in a positive way, provides many resources, and is always helpful.
Is it manageable?
Yes – if you match the route to your reality. Most students who enjoy Maths can manage Applied Maths with:
- a weekly slot that is protected like any other subject,
- consistent practice on a small set of core topics, and
- honest planning before busy terms.
The experiences above show exactly how different students made that work.
Final word from me
Applied Maths rewards curiosity and consistency. Read or watch a few of the stories that match your path, then decide with your head and your gut. If it feels like “how the world really works,” it may be the right fit for you.
And please reach out to me on sarah@expandingminds.ie if you have any questions.