The Transition Year Programme / Clár na hIdirbhliana
A Year to Grow, Explore and Achieve
Transition Year (TY) is a unique, one-year programme that bridges Junior Cycle and Senior Cycle. It offers students the time and space to grow in confidence, independence and maturity while preparing for the Leaving Certificate and life beyond school.
In line with the new national TY Programme Statement , our programme is designed to support students in becoming:
- Confident individuals
- Active learners
- Responsible citizens
- Future-ready young adults
Our Vision
At Pobalscoil na Tríonóide, we are committed to educational excellence in a respectful and inclusive community.
Our Transition Year reflects this by:
- Supporting each student to reach their full potential
- Encouraging independence, creativity and critical thinking
- Promoting wellbeing, respect and personal growth
- Preparing students for further education, careers and active citizenship
What Students Gain
Our TY Programme is built around four key areas of development:
Personal Growth
Building confidence, resilience, leadership and wellbeing.
Being a Learner
Developing new learning skills, creativity and independence.
Civic & Community Engagement
Encouraging active citizenship, teamwork and community involvement.
Career Exploration
Providing real-world experience and informed career choices.
A Whole-School Approach
Our TY Programme is designed collaboratively by:
- TY Co-ordinator
- Core Team of teachers
- School management
We also work closely with:
- Students
- Parents/Guardians
- Local businesses
- Community organisations
The Transition Year Programme at Pobalscoil na Tríonóide is carefully designed to meet the evolving needs and interests of our students. It reflects a whole-school approach, drawing on the expertise, creativity and commitment of staff across all subject areas.
Central to the ongoing development of the programme is the active involvement of students and parents. Regular feedback is gathered through surveys, consultations and informal communication, alongside input from employers and the wider school community. This ensures that the programme remains relevant, dynamic and responsive to the needs of all learners.
Through this collaborative and reflective process, the Transition Year Programme continues to evolve, providing students with meaningful opportunities for personal growth, learning, and future exploration.
Programme Overview
Core Subjects / Croí-Ábhair
- English
- Irish
- Mathematics
- Religious Education
- Physical Education
- Guidance Support
- Social Personal and Health Education
- Numeracy Skills
- Creative Writing
- Comhrá
- Assembly
Subject Choice (Students get 6 Subjects)
- Accounting
- Agricultural Science
- Art
- Biology
- Business
- Chemistry
- Computer Science
- Construction Studies
- Design & Communication Graphics
- Economics
- Engineering
- French
- Geography
- German
- Gearmánais
- History
- Home Economics
- Music
- Politics & Society
- Physics
- Physical Education
- Religion
- Spanish
- Russian
TY Specific Modules (One off layer);
- Car Maintance
- DIY
- Health Education
- Mini Company
- Media Studies
- Archaeology
- Horticulture
- Coaching Studies
- Entrepreneur skills
- Film Studies
- Global Schools
- Sports Nutrition
- Driver Theory
- Criminology
- Drama
Key Experiences
TY at Pobalscoil na Tríonóide goes far beyond the classroom:
Activity / Gníomhaíocht
- Foreign Trip
- Day Trip to Adventure Centres (dependant on student interest)
- Day Trips
- Primary School Hurling and Camogie Blitz
- First Cut Film Festival
- Darkness into Light
- Christmas Craft Fair
- Munster Driving Campus
- Ploughing Championships
- Environmental Awareness Programme
- Film Production
- First Aid
- CPR Training
- Fitness Training
- Guest Speakers
- Hill Walking
- Mini Company
- Overnight Trip
- School Bank/ Credit Union
- Self Defence
- Student Exchange Programme
- The President’s Award - An Gaisce Award
- Work Experience
Learning & Assessment
Assessment in TY reflects the broad and holistic nature of learning. Assessment modes will vary from subject to subject but in general, the following assessment modes will be used.
- Continuous assessment
- Project & portfolio work
- Presentations and interviews
- Practical activities
- Self-assessment and reflection
- Exhibitions and showcases
- Written tests/exams
Students build a TY Portfolio, capturing their progress, achievements and personal development throughout the year — a key element of the new TY framework
Certification & Achievement
Students have opportunities to gain external certifications, including:
- First Aid
- CPR
- GAA Coaching Foundation Level
- An Gaisce Award
and many more.....
All students receive aTransition Year Certificate of Participation, recognising:
- Commitment
- Engagement
- Personal growth
Continuous Improvement
Our TY Programme is reviewed and updated annually through:
- Student feedback
- Parent surveys
- Employer feedback (work experience)
- Subject/module evaluations
This ensures our programme continues to evolve and meet the needs of our students and community.
Preparing for the Future
Transition Year empowers students to:
- Make informed subject and career choices
- Develop life skills and independence
- Engage positively with their community
- Become confident, capable and compassionate young adults
Why Choose TY?
Because it’s not just a school year it’s a life-changing experience.