Transition Year: Pros & Cons
It is that time of year again when Junior Certificate students are beginning to think about their options for September 2022. Some are thinking about 5th year and subject choice, others are thinking of doing the Leaving Certificate Applied Programme and many are considering Transition Year. Transition Year is a fantastic year of learning and developing but is not for everyone. I have outlined some pros and cons to help you with the decision- making process.
Pros
1. Gain valuable work experience
Many schools encourage students to participate on two weeks of work experience as part of TY. This is a fantastic opportunity for students to try out different workplaces and gain insight into careers of interest. It helps to give students focus before embarking on senior cycle studies.
2. Develop new hobbies and skills
TY offers students the opportunity to try out new experiences through various modules that are not offered at Leaving Certificate. This can range from things such as swimming, boxing, yoga, volunteering, public speaking, debating, music, etc. It gives students the chance to try things out that they may not get the chance to otherwise thus developing hobbies and skills for the future. Every school offers their own unique TY programme so modules can be different in different schools.
3. Try out new subjects
Students have an opportunity to explore various subjects such as Home Economics, Art, DCG, Construction, Music, Agricultural Science etc. Many schools let students sample all subjects and this enables them to make accurate decisions when selecting subjects for 5th year.
4. Build confidence
The extra year gives students a chance to grow and develop in confidence, with lots of new and exciting experiences. Schools often encourage TY students to take part in various projects such as Gaisce, BT Young Scientist, and John Paul II Awards.
5. Year to mature
Many young people begin second level school at the age of 12 and may feel very young going into the Leaving Certificate and straight onto college. If so, TY is a chance to mature and develop. It is very common now for students to be 18 or 19 years of age when embarking on college life. The extra year of maturity during TY can help them settle into college much easier.
6. Develop new friendships
It is a great way to meet new people and develop Friendships. Activities tend to place an emphasis on teamwork and friendship, allowing students to get to know one another.
7. Break from study
It is a year out from study and the pressure of exams. This can really help students to relax and get to know themselves a lot better.
Cons
1. Extra year in school
If you really dislike school and can’t wait to get out into the real world, then you won’t want to willingly choose to spend another year in the place you’re dying to get out of. If you know what you want to do when you leave, then it is better to continue straight into 5th hear.
2. The cost
Schools have tried very hard to keep the cost of TY to a minimum for parents. But there is the financial cost of the year that must be considered. Fees seem to be ranging from €300 - €600 for the year depending on the school and activities on offer. You also need to consider extra money for bus trips etc throughout the year.
3. Fear of getting ‘lazy’
Students receive little to no homework every night and rarely get tests in class in most schools. There are no Christmas or summer exams. The opposite can be said for fifth year. Some people can handle this and cope fine, but some people may be overwhelmed by it all and struggle to cope, whereas people who skip TY will be used to the workload from the Junior Cert.
In conclusion, TY is a great year offering new opportunities for personal development. But it does not suit all young people. It comes down to the individual and if they are suited to it. There are many advantages and some disadvantages to TY. If you do choose to do TY, the advice I would give is to get involved in every opportunity that comes your way and make the most out of the year.