St. Columba's College, Stranorlar

About Transition Year

Transition Year in St. Columba’s is a unique, optional, one-year programme that promotes personal, social, vocational and educational development of students. It is designed to cater for the students' personal and social development with particular emphasis on increasing maturity and self-confidence. TY offers time, space and autonomy to create enjoyable and meaningful educational experiences that support students in senior cycle. It can be a bridge to opening up a broader range of possibilities and pathways. The programme enables young people to develop a greater capacity to respond to uncertainty, manage complexity, nurture personal interests and become agents of positive, ethical change in society.

A Year Of Exploration & Growth

Our TY students engage in a wide variety of activities and trips throughout the year, giving them the chance to learn beyond the classroom. These experiences help them develop confidence, teamwork skills, and independence. The main aims of the TY programme are to:

• Nurture the development of the student as a whole person by building on their previous experiences, through a curriculum designed by the school that is aligned to the TY Programme Statement
• Create space and opportunities for meaningful, enjoyable learning experiences through which the key competencies of the student can be developed in the classroom and school, in the home and in their role as local, national and global citizens
• Expand the student’s experience and awareness of diverse future pathways and nurture the student’s capacity to sustain their growth and development through a process of lifelong learning
• Evolve continuously to support the learning and development of the student through a reflection and renewal process involving students, teachers, school leaders, parents and community partners.

Developing Skills in Transition Year

Transition Year (TY) at St. Columba’s College is designed to provide students with a broad and balanced curriculum, allowing them to explore new subjects, develop key skills, and gain valuable life experience. Through a mix of academic subjects, practical learning, and leadership opportunities, students enhance their critical thinking, teamwork, creativity, and personal responsibility. Below is a list of the subjects offered on the TY programme:

TY offers a dynamic learning experience that encourages students to develop independence, leadership, and confidence, while also preparing them for their future academic and career choices.

Friday Modules

Every Friday afternoon, our TY students have the opportunity to choose from a range of engaging and skill-building modules. These sessions allow students to explore new interests, stay active, and develop practical life skills. Some of the available modules include:

• Swimming and Lifesaving
• Fitness
• Boxing
• Football
• Yoga
• Dancing
• Decoupage
• Creative Cookery

These modules encourage students to stay active, express creativity, and develop confidence in new areas of interest.

Exciting Activities in Transition Year

Transition Year at St. Columba’s College is about more than just academics—students engage in a variety of activities that promote personal growth, creativity, teamwork, and real-world learning. These activities provide students with opportunities to develop confidence, leadership skills, and a strong sense of social responsibility. Below is a list of some of the activities and experiences available to TY students:

• Public Speaking & Debating: Develop communication and presentation skills.
• Poetry Workshops: Explore creativity through writing and performance.
• Cinema & Theatre Trips: Experience cultural and literary works in a new way.
• Guest Speakers: Gain insights from experts in various fields.
• Road Safety Programme: Learn about responsible driving and safety awareness.
• Trips & Excursions: Visit sites like Fort Dunree for hands-on learning.
• Enterprise & Innovation: Participate in the Dragons’ Den event and Craft Fair.
• Charity & Community Involvement: Take part in fundraising and social initiatives.
• Gaisce – The President’s Award: Challenge yourself with personal development goals.
• BT Young Scientist: Showcase innovation and scientific research.
• Strictly Come Dancing Event: A fun and energetic way to build teamwork and confidence.
• First Aid Training: Learn essential life-saving skills.

These activities encourage students to step outside their comfort zones, explore new interests, and develop skills that will benefit them throughout their lives. Transition Year is a unique opportunity for personal development, discovery, and preparation for the future.

Assessment in Transition Year

Assessment in TY focuses on continuous evaluation, encouraging students to take ownership of their learning and progress. Students are assessed through various methods, including:

• Digital Portfolio – A record of student work, reflections, and achievements.
• Classroom Assessments & Project Work – Subject-specific tasks and collaborative projects.
• Reports – Issued at Christmas and Summer to provide feedback on progress.

Work Experience In Transition Year

Work experience is a key component of the Transition Year programme at St. Columba’s College, offering students the opportunity to explore potential career paths, develop professional skills, and gain valuable real-world experience. Through work placements, students can apply their learning in a practical setting, enhancing their confidence, independence, and decision-making skills.

During TY, students complete two separate two-week blocks of work experience. These placements allow them to:

• Gain insight into different industries and professions.
• Develop workplace skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving.
• Experience the expectations and responsibilities of a professional environment.
• Make informed decisions about future study and career options.

Students are encouraged to take initiative in securing their own placements, with guidance and support provided by the school. Work experience is an invaluable opportunity that helps students build essential life skills and prepare for their future careers.