Transition Year 2026/27
St. Colman's Community College
👋 Welcome
Dear Parents, Guardians, and 3rd Year Students,
Welcome to this evening’s Transition Year Information Session at St. Colman’s Community College.
We are delighted to have you here as we explore the opportunities, experiences, and benefits that TY 2026/27 has to offer.
🎯 Purpose
Learn about key changes and updates for Transition Year 2026/27
✨ What to Expect
Discover exciting new opportunities and developments in our TY programme
What is TY?
Transition Year is a one-year programme between Junior and Senior Cycle.
It offers a unique blend of academic, practical, and personal development experiences.
Benefits of Transition Year
1
Explore Interests
Try new subjects, activities, and career pathways.
2
Gain Work Experience
Build real-world skills and confidence.
3
Develop Life Skills
Learn leadership, teamwork, and independence.
4
Enjoy Trips & Activities
Adventure, cultural events, and hands-on learning.
Why is Transition Year changing?
A national review identified the need for a more structured, skills-based approach to Transition Year.
The change reflects the need to equip students with essential skills and knowledge for the future.
Student Dimensions in TY 2026/27
Personal Growth
Confidence, well-being, and resilience, with a focus on mental, physical, and emotional health.
Being a Learner
Hands-on, student-led experiences, digital literacy, and work experience.
Civic and Community Engagement
Volunteering, social responsibility, and sustainability.
Career Exploration
Students explore diverse future pathways, gaining workplace experience, and developing related competencies.
Key Areas for TY
New Assessment & Certification
More emphasis on project-based assessment, portfolio work, and reflection.
Stronger Work Experience Skills
More placements guidance, career guidance, and employer links.
Core Values & Student Focus
Personal growth, well-being, and active learning.
Refined Subject Structure
More targeted subject sampling linked to career pathways.
What has changed ?
Curriculum Adjustments
The curriculum will be adjusted and tailored to align with TY 2025 reforms.
One of our main changes is within subject choices.
Students will choose 7 LC option subjects outside of core, with a focus on career pathways.
Introducing More TY School Initiatives
Transition Year will have a stronger focus on student leadership, with opportunities to contribute to school life.
1
Student Leadership Involvement
Increased opportunities for participation and leadership within the school community.
2
Peer Mentoring
Programmes where senior students guide and support younger peers.
3
Social Action Projects
Projects focused on making a positive impact within the school and local community.
Introducing more Leadership & School Initiatives
Sports Coaching
Gain coaching experience and mentor younger students in sports activities.
First-Year Mentors
Support and guide incoming students through their transition to secondary school.
TY Media Team
Create digital content, manage school social media, and document TY activities.
Calendar/Cultural Awareness
Organise school-wide campaigns on key social and global issues.
Rotation Modules in TY
1
Study Skills
Develop effective learning and organisation techniques.
2
First Aid / CPR
Accredited life-saving skills training.
3
Digital Skills & Cyber Safety
Certified course on online safety and digital literacy.
4
Life Skills & Food Safety
Prepare five meals and earn a certified food safety qualification.
Guidance & Well-being Modules in TY
1
Health Education
Promoting physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
2
Relationships & Sexuality Education (RSE)
Understanding healthy relationships, consent, and personal responsibility.
3
Guidance 1
Career exploration, subject choices, and goal-setting.
4
Guidance 2
College pathways, employability skills, and personal development.
Assessment & Reporting in TY
Holistic Assessment
Emphasis on practical skills and real-world learning applications
Project Work/ Reports
Focus on collaborative projects and portfolio development. Term reports through VSWare.
Skill Recognition
Achievement through teamwork and micro-credentials
Work Experience
2 weeks of work experience - Dates will be released in April.
Also opportunity for students to become involved in a community / volunteer element which they take on themselves
Extra Activities & Opportunities in TY
Transition Year at St. Colman's Community College provides students with exciting, hands-on experiences that go beyond the classroom.
Mini Company- A fantastic opportunity for students to develop teamwork, creativity, and business skills in a real-world setting!
Students will spend weeks planning, designing, and marketing their project.
On the final showcase, businesses will be judged by a panel of experts.
Prizes awarded for various categories, including Best Innovation, Best Sales, and Best Overall Business.
TY School Show Opportunity 2026/27
For 2026, we are thrilled to present – Over the rainbow. A fantastic chance for students to showcase their acting, singing, dancing, and backstage talents.
This is an unmissable experience for TY students to develop confidence, teamwork, and creativity while having fun!
March 10-12th 2026
Tickets are on sale now!
All Welcome!
Ski Trip 2027
Departure: Saturday January 23rd 2027
Duration: 7 nights Half Board, 6 days x 4hrs skiing
Party: 50 + 5
Resort: San Valentino / Polsa
Total Price: €1,287
* additional €60 for flights from Cork - will know availability next year.
TY Fees must be paid in full to be eligible for the ski trip.
London Theatre Trip 2027
“Best experience of TY so far” - LC
“I loved the shows and Camden” - DD
“It was so much fun being with my friends and making memories” - JB
TY Fees must be paid in full to be eligible for the London Trip.
TY Classes – How they are formed.
Students from all 3rd-year classes will be mixed into new TY classes.
No movement between classes once they are assigned.
Encourage your child to embrace change – work with new classmates & teachers.
Mixed ability groups in all subjects except Maths, English & Irish.
How Parents Can Support Their Child
Encourage independence,
Explore career options
Support attendance & school rules- Each school day counts.
Support extracurricular activities
Stay informed about school events and TY progress
Ask questions.
Decision Time – Is TY right for you?
Discuss the decision at home.
Make your own choice, and think long-term.
Applying for TY-
Complete the Google Form carefully and put effort into your application.
Successful applicants will receive a confirmation email/ letter for parents/guardians.
TY Admissions – Conditions & Fees
TY places will be offered based on the TY Admissions Policy.
Successful applicants/parents will be informed in writing.
Students/parents must accept the offer in writing and complete all forms.
TY Fee for 2026/27: €400 (Way2Pay link will be provided).
A student is officially enrolled in TY once the fee is paid and forms are completed.
The school reserves the right to review a student’s place in TY within the first four weeks if they are deemed unsuited to the programme.
Questions & Contact Information
For more details, contact:
Lorraine Ó Tuama,
Transition Year Coordinator
Email: lotuama@colmans.ie
Phone: 021-4631696.
Thank you for your time.