TY Programme Outline

Step into a unique Transition Year experience in the heart of Gaeltacht na nDéise, where the Irish language is not just taught — it’s lived. At Coláiste na Rinne, students combine academic growth with cultural immersion, personal development, and unforgettable experiences, all within a vibrant, supportive residential community.

This is a 5 day boarding programme, Monday to Friday. The programme is delivered on a collaborative basis between Coláiste na Rinne and Meánscoil San Nioclás, the local secondary school in the Waterford Gaeltacht.

Boarding students will be registered as students of Meánscoil San Nioclás and will attend the transition year programme there in the company of local students. Students participating in the transition year programme will be required to use Irish at all times including: at school, at leisure and during off-campus excursions.

Why Choose Coláiste na Rinne for Transition Year?

• Total Irish Immersion: Classes, activities, and daily life are all conducted trí Ghaeilge, giving students the confidence and fluency to speak Irish naturally in real-world settings.
• Cultural Connection: Students experience traditional music, dance, storytelling, and folklore, strengthening their ties to Ireland’s rich heritage.
• Residential Experience: Our safe, comfortable boarding facilities offer students independence and responsibility while creating a strong sense of community.
• Small Group Focus: With courses capped at 25 students, every participant enjoys individual attention, meaningful engagement, and an inclusive, dynamic learning environment.
• Academic and Personal Growth: After school, students enjoy additional informal Irish classes, project work, and guided activities & fun excursions, fostering leadership, creativity, and teamwork.
• This course is ideal for students wishing to pursue a career where fluency in the Irish language is an asset, in such fields as education, media, law, public service, and journalism.

Programme Highlights

• Integrated School Life: Students attend Meánscoil San Nioclás for daytime classes, combining academic rigor with our boarding and cultural programme.
• Evening Activities: Supervised sessions include Irish-language workshops, arts and crafts, outdoor adventures, sports, and cultural events.
• Oral Irish Assessment: Applicants participate in a friendly Zoom interview to assess spoken Irish, ensuring each student benefits fully from immersion.
• Personalised Support: Our staff create a nurturing environment that balances structure with freedom, helping each student thrive socially and academically.

Who Should Apply?

This programme is ideal for Transition Year students who want to:

• Deepen their Irish language skills
• Experience the Gaeltacht lifestyle
• Grow in confidence, independence, and leadership
• Connect with Irish culture, music, and traditions
• Make lifelong friendships in a residential, immersive community

How to Apply

1. Fill out the enquiry form.
2. Complete the application form.
3. Participate in a short oral interview to assess spoken Irish.
4. Secure your place and prepare for an unforgettable year of growth, language, and culture.