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Understanding SPHE: A Guide for Leaving Cert Students

Updated: Mar 27, 2023

What is SPHE?

SPHE stands for Social, Personal, and Health Education, and it's a mandatory subject for all Leaving Cert students in Ireland. SPHE is designed to help students develop the knowledge, skills, and values they need to live healthy, happy, and fulfilling lives.


What Will You Learn in SPHE?

SPHE covers a wide range of topics related to social, personal, and health education. Some of the topics that may be covered in a SPHE course for Leaving Cert students include:

  • Personal development: SPHE helps students develop the skills and confidence they need to manage their own lives and make informed decisions. This includes topics such as self-esteem, communication, and decision-making.

  • Health and well-being: SPHE covers topics related to physical and mental health, including healthy eating, physical activity, stress management, and relationships.

  • Social and civic responsibilities: SPHE helps students understand their responsibilities as members of their communities and as global citizens. This includes topics such as citizenship, human rights, and environmental sustainability.

How is SPHE Taught?

SPHE is typically taught through a combination of classroom lessons, group activities, and individual projects. Classroom lessons may include lectures, discussions, and videos, while group activities and projects may involve role-playing, simulations, and research. The goal of SPHE is to create a safe and supportive learning environment where students feel comfortable discussing sensitive topics and exploring their own values and beliefs.


Career Opportunities in SPHE

While SPHE may not be a subject that directly leads to a specific career, the skills and knowledge you'll gain in SPHE can be valuable in a variety of fields. Some careers that may be relevant for students interested in SPHE include:

  • Social work: Social workers help individuals, families, and communities deal with social and personal problems, such as poverty, abuse, and mental health issues.

  • Education: Teachers educate students in a variety of subjects, including SPHE.

  • Health care: Health care professionals, such as doctors, nurses, and therapists, work to promote physical and mental health and well-being.

  • Community organizing: Community organizers work to bring about social change by building relationships and organizing people to advocate for issues such as housing, education, and social justice.

Tips for Succeeding in SPHE

To succeed in SPHE, there are a few key tips to keep in mind:

  • Participate actively in class: SPHE is a interactive and hands-on subject, so it's important to participate actively in class and ask questions when you have them.

  • Be open-minded and respectful: SPHE can involve discussing sensitive and personal topics, so it's important to be open-minded and respectful of others' viewpoints and experiences.

  • Take advantage of resources: There are many resources available to help you learn and explore topics in SPHE, including books, articles, and online resources. Make sure to take advantage of these resources and seek out additional support when needed.

  • Reflect on your own values and beliefs: SPHE is an opportunity to explore your own values and beliefs, so make sure to take the time to reflect on these and consider how they shape your actions and decisions.

In conclusion, SPHE is a valuable and practical subject that helps students develop the skills and knowledge they need to live healthy, happy, and fulfilling lives. By participating actively in class, being open-minded and respectful, taking advantage of resources.


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