Edmund Rice Secondary School
Carrick-on-Suir
Transition Year
Discover, Develop, Achieve
Transition Year at Edmund Rice Secondary School offers students a unique opportunity to step beyond the traditional classroom and experience a year of personal growth, skill development and discovery. As a bridge between Junior Cycle and Senior Cycle, our TY programme encourages students to become confident, responsible and independent young adults while providing a strong academic foundation for Leaving Certificate studies. Students are challenged to explore new interests, develop practical life skills, build leadership qualities and gain valuable real-world experience.
Our Transition Year programme reflects the values of Edmund Rice Secondary School by fostering a caring, inclusive and supportive environment where students are encouraged to challenge themselves, celebrate their achievements and realise their full potential. Whether developing leadership skills, exploring future careers, undertaking new challenges or creating lifelong memories, Transition Year at ERSS is a year of opportunity, growth and achievement.
Academic Programme
Transition Year at ERSS provides students with a strong academic foundation while allowing them the freedom to explore new areas of learning. Students continue to study core subjects including English, Irish, Mathematics, Science, Business, Geography and History, while also experiencing a range of practical and creative subjects. The programme encourages independent learning, research, project work and presentation skills, helping students develop the confidence and study habits required for Senior Cycle and beyond.
Work Experience
Work Experience is one of the most valuable aspects of the Transition Year programme. Students participate in weekly work placements throughout the school year, gaining first-hand experience of the workplace and exploring potential career paths. Through engagement with employers, students develop communication skills, professionalism, responsibility and confidence. The experience helps students make informed decisions about future subject choices, further education and career opportunities while building essential life skills for the future.
Gaisce Award
Students at ERSS are encouraged to participate in the Gaisce – The President's Award, Ireland's national self-development programme. Working towards their Bronze Award, students challenge themselves through community involvement, personal skill development, physical activity and an adventure journey. Gaisce promotes resilience, leadership, commitment and personal growth while encouraging students to step outside their comfort zone and achieve goals they can be proud of.
The photographs below capture some of the highlights from our Transition Year students’ Gaisce Adventure Journey in Graiguenamanagh. As part of their Bronze Gaisce Award, students challenged themselves through outdoor activities, teamwork and personal resilience over two memorable days. While these images showcase some of the experiences enjoyed, they represent just a snapshot of the many challenges, achievements and lasting memories created throughout the adventure.
Community Involvement
Community involvement is a cornerstone of Transition Year at ERSS. Students are encouraged to become active citizens through volunteering and engagement with local organisations and community groups. Whether supporting local initiatives, working with younger students, participating in environmental projects or contributing to charitable activities, students develop a greater appreciation of the importance of service, empathy and social responsibility.
Enterprise & Entrepreneurship
The Enterprise programme gives students the opportunity to develop creativity, innovation and business skills in a practical setting. Students explore how businesses operate, generate ideas, solve problems and work collaboratively on projects. Through enterprise activities, competitions and workshops, students gain valuable insights into entrepreneurship while developing teamwork, communication and leadership skills that will benefit them throughout their education and future careers.
Educational Trips & Tours
Learning extends far beyond the classroom in Transition Year. Throughout the year, students participate in a wide range of educational trips and visits that enrich their learning and broaden their experiences. From cultural and historical excursions to industry visits and international travel opportunities, these experiences help students develop independence, build friendships and gain a deeper understanding of the world around them.
Guest Speakers & Workshops
Transition Year students benefit from a diverse programme of guest speakers and workshops delivered by professionals, organisations and community leaders. Topics include health and wellbeing, road safety, personal development, career pathways, entrepreneurship, first aid and life skills. These sessions provide valuable real-world perspectives and inspire students to think about their future goals and opportunities.
Sports & Outdoor Activities
Physical activity and wellbeing are important elements of the TY experience at ERSS. Students take part in a variety of sporting and outdoor activities throughout the year, including swimming, team-building events and adventure-based learning experiences. These activities promote fitness, confidence, resilience, teamwork and leadership while encouraging students to embrace new challenges.
European Ambassador School Programme
As part of our commitment to developing informed and active citizens, Transition Year students have the opportunity to participate in the European Parliament Ambassador School Programme. Through a range of activities, projects and awareness campaigns, students learn about the European Union, democratic participation and the role of young people in shaping society. The programme helps students develop leadership, communication and teamwork skills while encouraging them to engage with local, national and international issues.
Careers & Future Pathways
Transition Year provides students with valuable opportunities to explore future education and career options. Through weekly work experience, career investigations, guest speakers, college visits and workshops, students gain insight into a wide range of professions and industries. Experiences such as Mini Med, Mini Physio, SETU engagement programmes, Defence Forces presentations and interview preparation workshops help students make informed decisions about their future. By the end of the year, students have developed a greater understanding of their strengths, interests and potential career pathways.
Student Leadership
Transition Year provides numerous opportunities for students to develop leadership skills and take on greater responsibility within the school community. Students are encouraged to organise events, mentor younger pupils, represent the school at various initiatives and contribute positively to school life. Through these experiences, students develop confidence, communication skills and the ability to work effectively with others.