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Transition Year

Introduction

Loreto College Foxrock’s Transition Year (TY) programme is designed as a dynamic and balanced experience, combining academic excellence with personal development. It uses a mix of teaching and learning approaches, including cross-curricular, experiential and activity-based learning, helping students develop a wide range of skills and recognise their individual strengths.

The programme focuses on learning rather than exams, encouraging independent, self-directed learners while supporting the development of multiple intelligences and key life skills. A balance of academic and non-academic elements is maintained and reviewed annually.

Students study core subjects throughout the year, alongside optional academic subjects and short non-academic modules. This broad exposure helps students gain insight into senior cycle demands and supports informed subject choices for the Leaving Certificate, ensuring a confident transition into 5th Year. Loreto College Foxrock’s Transition Year (TY) programme is designed as a dynamic and balanced experience, combining academic excellence with personal development. It uses a mix of teaching and learning approaches, including cross-curricular, experiential and activity-based learning, helping students develop a wide range of skills and recognise their individual strengths.

Core Subjects

Irish English
Mathematics Religious Education
Physical Education Computer Studies
SPHE

 

TY Specific Subjects

Career Guidance Digital Media Literacy
English and Communication Irish Language and Culture
Mathematical Applications

 

Optional Academic Subjects

Accountancy French
Applied Mathematics Geography
Art History
Biology Home Economics
Business Leaving Cert PE (LCPE)
Chemistry Music
Classical Studies Physics
Economics Spanish

 

Modern Language must be included in subject options if being considered for the senior cycle.

Short Course Modules (taken by all students, averaging 5 weeks in length)

Art Appreciation Bridge
Chinese Language and Culture Classical Studies
Computer Coding Cooking
Cultural Education Drama
Enterprise Film Making
First Aid Japanese Language and Culture
Justice, Peace and Integrity Music Appreciation
Outdoor Pursuits Research Skills
Self Defence Song Writing
Sustainable Development Tutorial

 

Additional information on all that Transition Year in LCF offers can be found in the links below.

The Gaisce Award


Gaisce, or the President’s award, is Ireland’s national youth award. It is a self-development programme for young people aged 14-25.

Gaisce participants achieve a Gaisce Award by completing Challenge Areas: Personal Skill, Physical Recreation, Community Involvement, and an Adventure Journey.

All TY students are expected to take part in the Gaisce programme. For the majority, this will be their first year of Gaisce activities, leading to the first of the awards – the Bronze award.

The Gaisce Adventure element is usually arranged for April. This two-day hike takes place in Co. Wicklow. Students complete a 25km walk along the Wicklow Way and camp over-night at Lough Dan where they have to cook their own supper. The Adventure is open to any student who wishes to take part and is the final element required to complete the Gaisce Bronze Award.