Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 27 March 2025
249. Deputy Eoin Ó Broin asked the Minister for Education the options available to an individual (details supplied) who has not been successful in obtaining a placement in fourth year in their current school for the coming year, but who wishes to undertake the transition year course; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14880/25]
View answerUnder the provisions of the Education Act, 1998, the Board of Management of a school is the body charged with the direct governance of a school and is accountable to the Patron of the school. The School Principal manages the school on a day-to-day basis.
The Board of Management provides direction and oversight of the subjects and education programmes offered by a school and the Board makes the final decision about the type and nature of programmes to offer, taking into account all available resources. In that regard, the management authority of each school carries responsibility for making decisions regarding the Transition Year programme in that school and the admissions criteria for entry to the programme.
It is a matter for a school to determine the number of places it makes available in Transition Year in a given year. Timetabling for the academic year is arranged by the school and unfortunately this may not always be able to accommodate every student’s subject or programme choice.
In cases where restrictions apply, schools should have clear procedures regarding admission to the programme which indicate how places are allocated to students if there is over or under subscription for a particular subject or programme.
Where a student has been unable to access a Transition Year place, it is open to them and/or their parents to discuss any concerns with the Principal and/or guidance counsellor, or follow the steps outlined in their admissions policy or complaints procedures.
As part of the Senior Cycle Redevelopment programme, I am committed to expanding access to Transition Year and to supporting schools in giving every student the option of participating in Transition Year in the future. My officials are currently working to identify barriers to participation and understand their causes and this work will inform my approach to making Transition Year accessible to all.
