In summary, the aims of Transition Year in St. Columba’s College are:

●Pupils are encouraged to become more rounded individuals:  personally, academically and in terms of maturity.

●The academic momentum of pupils should be maintained (and indeed increased) to provide a suitable bridge between the Junior and Leaving Certificates.

●Pupils should be able to make their subject choices for Leaving Certificate on the basis of a realistic assessment of the nature of the subjects and their own ability and motivation.

●Pupils should experience the depth of subjects to a degree not normally allowed within the confines of the state exam courses.

●Pupils should experience a wider range of learning and assessment styles than normal and should gain the confidence and ability to make realistic self­assessments.

●Pupils should start to become responsible for their own learning.

●Self-­awareness, social maturity and group interaction skills should be developed, particularly thought the extra­curricular programme.

●There should be opportunities to develop an awareness and appreciation of the social, cultural, political and environmental aspects of the world in which we live.

●There should be opportunities to start contemplating possible career paths.

●Pupils should forge strong links within their form group which will help to see them through to their Leaving Certificate and beyond.