Transition Year

rdf:langString Transition Year

rdf:langString Transition Year (TY) (Irish: Idirbhliain) is an optional one-year school programme that can be taken in the year after the Junior Certificate in Ireland. However, depending on school population and funding it may not be available, and in other schools it is compulsory. For the most part the year is designed around giving students life skills, incorporating a work experience program. There are also many trips available to the students, foreign and local, aimed at giving a more hands-on aspect to learning. Transition Year was introduced as a pilot project in September 1974, but it was not until September 1994 that the programme was introduced mainstream. Transition Year is not examined, but rather is assessed (i.e. no written exams), and is intended to be a broad educational experience which assists in the transition from the school environment by encouraging creativity and responsibility for oneself. Approximately 75% of second-level schools offer the programme and it consists of both education and work experience. Schools generally set admissions criteria and design the programme based on local needs in accordance with departmental guidelines. The year focuses on many non-academic subjects, such as life skills including first aid, cooking, self-defense, driving and typing. A lot of sport goes on, with many different types including: rock-climbing, hill-walking, horse-riding, sailing, kayaking and orienteering. Voluntary work is a requirement in many schools, with students helping out in local communities and charities. There are many programs aimed at TY students such as Student Enterprise and Young Social Innovators (YSI). Students in TY are also encouraged to take part in various competitions and programs outside the school; these include BT Young Scientist, Gaisce: The President's Award and Junk Kouture. Many schools use TY as an opportunity to give their students different experiences by organising foreign exchanges, putting on school musicals, etc. Transition year students are graded at the end of the year on their overall participation, attendance and their project (usually a creative portfolio of their activities and experiences) they undertook for the year. There are three grades; Distinction is the highest, then Merit and lastly a Pass.