Transition Year Programme

Transition Year (TY) is a dynamic one-year programme designed to support students as they grow, develop, and prepare for the challenges of Senior Cycle and life beyond school.

It offers a rich and varied experience that empowers students to:

• Make informed choices about their future pathways

• Build confidence and independence

• Develop key life and learning skills

• Become active, responsible members of society

A Year of Growth & Opportunity

Through a balance of structured and self-directed learning, students:

• Strengthen communication and teamwork skills

• Build self-confidence and resilience

• Develop a strong sense of responsibility and social awareness

Students have the opportunity to explore and develop their talents through a wide range of activities, including:

• Gaisce – The President’s Award

• Microsoft DreamSpace experiences

• Work Experience placements

• Young SVP initiatives

• Student Leadership opportunities

Memorable Experiences

Transition Year offers unique experiences that encourage independence, teamwork, and personal growth:

• Adventure trips to Killary Adventure Centre

• Gaeltacht immersion programmes

• Foreign tours and cultural trips

These experiences help students build lasting friendships and confidence in new environments.

Curriculum Overview

Core Subjects

Students continue to build strong academic foundations while developing new skills:

• English

• Irish

• Maths

• Religion

• Physical Education (PE)

• SPHE (Social, Personal & Health Education)

• Computers

• Portfolio Development

• Music

• Art

• French / Spanish

• Career Exploration

• Young Social Innovators (YSI)

• Sustainable Development Education (SDE)

Senior Cycle Subject Sampling

Students gain valuable insight into potential Leaving Certificate subjects:

• History

• Geography

• Accounting

• Business

• Physics

• Chemistry

• Biology

• Agricultural Science

• PE (Exam subject)

• DCG (Design & Communication Graphics)

• Technology

• Construction Studies

TY Subject Options

Students can further personalise their learning through engaging options such as:

• Mini-Company

• Introduction to Law

• The World of Modern Media

• Thinking Technically (VEX Robotics)

Practical & Life Skills Modules

A key strength of TY is its focus on real-world skills and personal development:

• Driving Skills

• Cookery

• Self-Defence

• Community Care

• Drama

• Irish Dancing

• Life Skills

• Using Your Voice

• Sports Coaching (Golf, Rugby, Soccer, GAA)

A Rewarding Year

Transition Year is a busy, enjoyable, and highly rewarding experience for students. It provides a unique opportunity to explore new interests, develop key skills, and grow into confident, capable young adults ready for the next stage of their journey.

Gaisce, or The President’s Award as it is commonly known, is available to all our Transition Year students in Colaiste Choilm. It is a self-development programme for young people based on the values of empowerment, inclusion, equality, respect and excellence. It encourages students to find a passion, get active and make a difference in their community.

Our TYs commit to activities in three different areas in order to receive their Bronze Award; Personal Skill, Physical Recreation and Community Involvement. They must also complete an overnight Adventure Journey.

Completing the Gaisce Programme is a real achievement and we are very proud of the large number of Colaiste Choilm students who have received their award. Previous students who have participated in Gaisce have said:

“I really enjoyed the programme and it’s great being able to put on my C.V. that I have a Bronze Award.”

“My favourite part was community involvement as I really enjoyed working in a local charity shop and actually continued to volunteer there even after Gaisce was over.”

“I’m really glad I did Gaisce because I had given up all sport and Gaisce encouraged me to get fit again. I’m back playing football now.”