Overview
Transition Year is an optional year between Junior and Senior Cycle.
This one-year programme offers the potential for the holistic development of young people. It is an interdisciplinary programme with an emphasis on personal development, social awareness and increased social competence.
The financial contribution for Transition Year 2023/24 is €500. This is an all-inclusive fee covering books, journal, insurance, workshops and activities during the year, including a 2night-3day trip to Delphi Adventure Resort, Connemara and all associated transport costs.
The programme content is a balance between the academic and the development of other skills and interests. All activities undertaken enable students to have a valid and worthwhile learning experience with an emphasis on self-directed learning. A focus on the world of work and options available after Leaving Cert, help students make informed choices for senior cycle subjects.
Assessment is a key part of any worthwhile learning programme. Transition Year is an opportunity to move beyond the narrow focus of end-of-year, written exams. Credits are awarded for the participation and engagement with subjects and modules. The emphasis is on varied and on-going assessment with students themselves becoming involved in diagnosing their own learning strengths and weaknesses.
Project work, portfolio work and exhibitions of students’ work are also encouraged.
Admission to TY is not automatic. The admission process follows the TY Admission Policy and is administered by the TY Coordinator in association with the Principal and Deputy Principal.
Induction begins in second and third year of Junior Cycle with the TY Coordinator visiting all the class groups and discussing the differences between TY and the rest of the secondary cycle as well as the importance of good behaviour in being accepted to the TYP.
An information meeting for parents of 3rd years is held in the school in March/April.
Application forms are made available in April and where necessary, interviews may need to be conducted.
In August Students meet their Year Head/Coordinator and Class Teachers for an overview of the year’s programme, calendar, and expectations. A Team-Building activity day is scheduled towards the end of September.
Staff and new staff meet in August to discuss and plan for Transition Year.