Presentations & Information

Transition Year

Transition Year (TY) is a unique and transformative period in your educational journey. It serves as a vital bridge between the Junior and Senior Cycles, offering students the space to mature, explore new interests, and develop skills that extend far beyond the classroom.

The philosophy of our programme is simple: you get out what you put in. While academic studies continue, the focus shifts toward independent learning, social awareness, and personal development.

Key Goals of the Programme:

• Maturity: Developing self-confidence and a sense of responsibility.

• Skills: Learning practical life skills, from IT to critical thinking.

• Experience: Gaining real-world insight through work placements and community involvement.

• Orientation: Making informed choices about Leaving Certificate subjects and future career paths.

Transition Year Presentation: January 20th 2026

The closing date to submit completed Transition Year application forms is strictly 12 noon on Thursday January 29th 2026.

Application forms have been shared via VSware Mail.

Fifth Year Subject Choice

Entering the Senior Cycle is one of the most exciting milestones in your secondary school journey. For the first time, you have the opportunity to tailor your curriculum to match your personal strengths, interests, and future aspirations.

The subjects you choose now will be your focus for the next two years, leading up to the Leaving Certificate. While this decision can feel significant, it is also a wonderful chance to take ownership of your education.

How to Make the Right Choice

There is no "perfect" combination of subjects, but there is a combination that is perfect for you. When reviewing the options available for 5th and 6th Year, we encourage you to consider three key pillars:

• Passion: What do you genuinely enjoy? You will spend a significant amount of time studying these subjects over the next two years. Enjoyment is often the fuel for high achievement.

• Aptitude: Look at your past results and feedback. Where do your natural strengths lie? Playing to your strengths can build confidence and maximize your points potential.

• Pathway: While many college courses have general entry requirements, some specific careers (such as Engineering, Medicine, or Art) may require specific subjects. It is vital to research the essential requirements for any courses you are seriously considering.

We Are Here to Guide You

Remember, this is not a decision you have to make alone. We strongly encourage you to:

• Speak with your current subject teachers about the Leaving Cert syllabus.

• Consult with the Career Guidance department regarding college requirements.

• Discuss your thoughts at home with parents or guardians.

Take your time, do your research, and choose the path that excites you the most.

5th Year Subject Choice Presentation: January 22nd 2026

Subject Choice Booklet 2026

The closing date to submit completed Fifth Year Subject Choice forms is strictly 12 noon on Wednesday February 11th.

Application forms have been shared via Google Classroom.

New Senior Cycle Redevelopment

The Senior Cycle Redevelopment is a multi-year programme of change being introduced by the Department of Education. It is not about completely overhauling the Leaving Certificate, but rather about evolving and enriching it to meet the diverse needs and aspirations of today's students. The key goals include:

• Increased Student Choice and Flexibility: Offering a broader range of subjects and learning experiences to cater to individual interests and talents.
• Enhanced Teaching and Learning: Moving towards more active and student-centered approaches, fostering critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity.
• New Assessment Methods: Introducing a wider variety of assessment methods beyond the traditional terminal exam, recognizing different forms of learning and skills.
• Stronger Connections to Further Education and Employment: Ensuring the Senior Cycle equips students with the skills and knowledge needed for their next steps.
• Wellbeing at the Core: Placing a greater emphasis on student wellbeing and holistic development.

More About Senior Cycle Redeveopment

CAT 4 Test

The CAT4 test, which stands for is an assessment used by schools to understand a student's natural reasoning abilities and academic potential.

It's not an exam based on the school curriculum. Unlike a test on history or math, the CAT4 doesn't measure what a student has already learned in class. It assesses "thinking skills." The test is designed to see how a student thinks and solves problems in four key areas:

• Verbal Reasoning:Thinking with words and understanding relationships between them.

• Quantitative Reasoning:Thinking with numbers and patterns.

• Non-Verbal Reasoning:Solving problems using shapes, diagrams, and pictures.

• Spatial Ability:Visualizing and mentally manipulating shapes in 3D space.

Its purpose is to provide a "rounded view" of a student. The results help teachers identify a student's strengths and weaknesses, spot hidden potential that might not be obvious in class, and determine if a student needs extra support or a greater challenge. The test can also be used to help students and teachers make informed decisions about future subject choices (we use this during Third Year or Transition Year).

A student's scores are compared to the performance of other students of the same age (ie are standardised), giving a clear indication of their abilities relative to their peers.

Explaining the CAT4 Test