What is TY?
Transition Year (TY) is an optional one-year programme within senior cycle that helps students grow personally, academically, and socially. It bridges Junior Cycle and Senior Cycle, offering students time to explore their interests, develop new skills, and prepare for future careers and education paths.
Why Choose TY?
- Supports personal growth, confidence, and independence.
- Allows students to explore careers through work experience.
- Encourages active citizenship and community engagement.
- Helps students make informed choices about Leaving Certificate subjects and future careers.
- Develops key competencies such as problem-solving, communication, and teamwork.
How TY Works in Our Lady’s
The TY programme is based on the national framework. The curriculum includes:
✅ Core subjects – Math’s, English, Irish, and SPHE.
✅ Subject sampling -to help with Leaving Certificate subject choices
✅ TY-specific modules – e.g. digital skills, Sci Fest, Mini Company, Chinese.
✅ Work experience & career exploration – Careers class each week and work experience each Friday.
✅ Community & cultural projects – e.g. Gaisce, Green Schools.
✅ Trips and Activities – e.g. Delphi, Driving School, Fitness Classes. Trips change from year to year and are based on the
interests and needs of the students in TY.
Assessment & Reporting
TY is about learning through experience and skill development. Students will be assessed through e-portfolios, projects, presentations, assessments and reflections. Our school will provide reports on student progress across personal, academic, and career development areas. Students are also assessed through a credit system. Students will be awarded a completion of TY certificate in the grades of Pass, Merit or Distinction.
Parental Support & Involvement
Parents play a key role in supporting their child’s TY experience. Schools will communicate regularly through meetings, newsletters, social media and progress reports. There is also a graduation ceremony for all TY Students held in May each year.
TY is a unique and valuable opportunity for students to grow and develop in a supported and structured way. It provides an enriching experience that prepares them for senior cycle and life beyond school.