Yesterday morning during our bus ride to Lahinch, we got to learn more about the Irish education system from Tom, who worked in primary education for many years. This was of particular interest for our group, as our documentary is focused on the impact education can have on civic engagement/Citizens’ Assemblies.

Although we have interviewed many citizens about the structure of the Irish education system, I was surprised that Tom was the only one to mention the transition year that many secondary students have in between their junior cycle and senior cycle. Tom explained that this year is a chance for students to explore career options by shadowing professionals and getting field experience, to grow closer to their peers through educational trips/study abroad, and to volunteer/learn the importance of being civically engaged. The hope is that the transition year provides students the opportunity to learn, grow, and mature without the pressure that comes with exams. While the transition year is optional in most schools, nearly 75% of students take part in the program. I think the transition year is a really interesting program because it serves as a bridge between formal education and learned experience/cultural education, both of which our group is investigating. While my high school had a certification that included career/personal development requirements, we were required to complete them during the regular school year. I wonder if giving Irish students an entirely separate year to explore their interests allows for the academic year to be more rigorous. Additionally, I think that the fact that students have the opportunity to apply their knowledge in the real world in a low-stakes environment shows how dedicated Ireland is rigorous education; in the United States, usually only well-to-do kids have the opportunity to take a gap year to figure things out.

Photo Credit: https://stcatherinesvs.com/transition-year/

Sources: https://www.curriculumonline.ie/senior-cycle/transition-year/#:~:text=The%20Transition%20Year%20(TY)%20is,Junior%20Cycle%20and%20Senior%20Cycle.