Transition Year

The Transition Year (TY) is a one-year programme that forms the first year of a three-year senior cycle in many schools. It is designed to act as a bridge between the Junior Certificate and Leaving Certificate programmes. It is available to all second level schools and currently approximately 75% of schools offer the programme. Transition Year is optional for students in most schools.

Programme Structure

Each school designs its own Transition Year programme, within set guidelines, to suit the needs and interests of its students.

Assessment

TY Assessment

There is no state examination at the end of Transition Year. Assessment is usually carried out on an ongoing basis and can include school-based assessment of projects or portfolios, oral, aural, practical and written activities.

Transition Units

A number of schools have incorporated 45 hour courses, called transition units, as part of their Transition Year Programme. These transition units are developed by NCCA, in collaboration with teachers and agencies.

Try out some sample transition units.

Useful links

Transition Year Support Service

Department of Education guidelines on Transition Year Programmes

Professional Development Service for Teachers

Senior Cycle Home Page