Transition Year

TY Calendar

To access the Transition Year calendar click on image above.

Programme Aims

In Newbridge College, transition year is an optional one-year programme to support and enable students as they make the transition from junior cycle to senior cycle.

Our transition year programme supports and realises the aims of our school mission statement by promoting the personal, social, educational and vocational development of the students, and to prepare them for their role as autonomous, participative and responsible members of society. This programme promotes maturity in our students and encourages our young people to become more aware of themselves and the community and world around them.

A major focus of the programme is to encourage students to develop life skills that will be needed at senior cycle. Students are encouraged to build on their previous experiences and to develop aspects of the key competencies of senior cycle (Working with others, participating in society, cultivating wellbeing, managing learning and self, thinking and solving problems, being creative and communicating). It allows students to expand and explore their strategies for learning and make informed choices regarding future subjects and possible career options.

Gaining a realistic insight into the world of work, through work experience, is one of the key elements in helping students to develop those skills. We aim to foster a spirit of independent learning and respect amongst our students. Our core values of responsibility, empathy, safety, pride, excellence, cooperation and truth underpin our programme and its objectives.

Work Experience

Students undertake work experience one day per week for the entire academic year. In addition to this some students may also decide to participate in block work experience weeks.

Each student is required to submit an information sheet and evaluation form for each work experience they have undertaken

Copies of these forms are available here:

• Work Experience Report
• Employer Information Sheet

Gaisce

All students are encouraged to complete their Bronze Gaisce award. This will involve completing challenges in four areas: A new skill; community involvement; physical activity and an adventure journey (the Gaisce hike)

Assessment

Both summative and formative assessment are actively used throughout the programme. Formative assessment used will vary across departments and teachers. Collaborative learning techniques and Assessment for Learning are a feature of transition year classes.

Portfolio

Students are required to produce a portfolio of work at the end of year. This should feature samples of work and projects prepared throughout the year.

Certification

In some modules, students will receive additional certificate: French – Alliance Francais; Computers – ICDL Chinese – level 1; Pool Lifeguard; Student Enterprise Awards (Kildare LEO); KAS Certificate; Barista Course (Food Safety & Barista course).

Interview

All students must sit an interview at the end of the year. This interview will form part of their end of year report.

Reports

Reports are sent home twice yearly, Christmas and Summer.