Transition Year

Parent Information

Transition Year at St Joseph’s College

Transition Year at St. Joseph’s College offers students a unique opportunity to grow personally, socially and academically through a rich and varied programme of modules, workshops, trips, competitions and real-world experiences. Designed in line with the Department of Education Transition Year Programme Statement, our programme is structured around four key developmental indicators that help students discover their strengths, broaden their horizons and prepare for life beyond school.

Personal Growth and Wellbeing

Students develop confidence, resilience, independence and self-awareness through challenging and rewarding experiences that encourage them to step outside their comfort zones.

Highlights include:

• Goal Setting and Personal Reflection

• Gaisce – The President’s Award

• Sports Psychology Programme with The Fundamentals

• Develop Me Personal Development Programme

• Swimming Programme and Water Confidence Development

• Athletics Training Programme

• Fencing, Padel Tennis and Go-Karting

• Driving School and RSA Road Safety Programme

• Disability Awareness Workshop

• Foreign Educational Tour

• End-of-Year Celebration at Emerald Park

• Transition Year Graduation

Becoming an Active Citizen

Students contribute to their community, develop leadership skills and gain a deeper understanding of social and environmental responsibility.

Highlights include:

• One-to-One Digital Skills and AI Tutoring with the Active Retirement Group

• Coaching in Local Primary Schools

• GAA Future Leaders Programme

• GAA Coaching and Refereeing Qualifications

• Swap Shop Sustainability Initiative

• Rubbish Film Festival

• Christmas Concert Performance and Event Support

Learning to Learn

Students build critical thinking, creativity, research and digital skills through engaging academic modules, innovation challenges and national competitions.

Highlights include:

• Stripe BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition

• SciFest

• BD STEM Stars

• The Big Idea

• Cybersecurity Competition with University College Dublin and Cyberwise

• Stripe Business Bootcamp

• SEP Christmas Market Competition

• Coding, AI and Music Generation

• Research Skills and Forensic Science Workshops

• RCSI Debunking Medical Myths Workshop

Exploring Future Pathways

Students explore careers, further education and workplace opportunities, helping them make informed decisions about their future.

Highlights include:

• Work Experience (Two Two-Week Placements)

• Tipperary ETB FET TY Taster Courses

• Careers in the Equine Industry: Coolmore Stud and Ballydoyle Racing

• Apprenticeship and Careers Talk with H&MV Engineering

• AI and the Future of Work Workshop

• Barista Training, Barbering and SFX Makeup

• Occupational First Aid, CPR and Fire Safety Certification

• Careers Education and Portfolio Development

Educational Trips and Cultural Experiences

Throughout the year, students take part in a wide range of educational and team-building experiences including:

• Back-to-School Team-Building Trip to Moylussa and an Aqua Park

• Kayaking and Guided Tour of Cahir Castle

• Spike Island Guided Tour

• National Reptile Zoo Visit

• Cork Christmas Trip

• Limerick Prison Educational Visit

A Broad and Balanced Curriculum

In addition to experiential learning, students participate in a wide range of modules including Irish, English, Mathematics, French, European Studies, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Business, Accounting, Coding, Research Skills, Technology, DCG, Art, Music, Media Studies, Nutrition, Horticulture, Home Economics, SPHE, Careers, Portfolio Development, Physical Education, Gym, Chess and Darts.

Preparing Students for Success

Transition Year at St. Joseph’s College empowers students to discover new interests, develop practical and personal skills, contribute to their community and gain valuable insight into future careers and opportunities. It is a transformative year that challenges students to grow in confidence and realise their full potential.