Abstract

The 1994 restructuring of the Senior Cycle was intended to “provide maximum flexibility in catering for the different needs, aptitudes and abilities of pupils” (Department of Education 1993a). For the first time, all second-level schools in Ireland were presented with the possibility of offering a Transition Year programme (TYP). In the school year 2000-2001, 67% of second-level schools included a TYP in their provision. This paper investigates the relationship between the Transition Year and educational disadvantage. Data relating to patterns of uptake of the programme are analysed. The potential of the TY programme to respond to the needs of educationally disadvantaged young people is also examined. The author began teaching on the TY programme in 1986 and from 1995 to 2000 was seconded to the support service for Transition Year. The data presented here was gathered in his role as National Co-ordinator of the Transition Year Curriculum Support Service.