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Down Syndrome Ireland Transition Year Programme

For some time, issues around the provision of an appropriate Transition Year experience have been highlighted by members. This has also been an area of difficulty for some schools. In an attempt to address this clear need and with assistance from colleagues, Fidelma Brady, our Head of Education, has developed a Transition Year Programme for students with Down syndrome, which would also be useful for other students with Intellectual Disabilities. A number of parents were nominated by their Branches to assist in the initial review of the programme and to participate in an online focus group discussion. After revisions, the programme has now been issued to five post primary schools in the following branch areas – Donegal, Cavan, Louth / Meath and Kerry, where it will be piloted over the 2026-2027 school year. The programme will then be available for all Post Primary schools in the 2027-2028 school year.

The programme links Junior and Senior Cycles through:

  • Independence, personal and organisational skills development
  • Communication skills development
  • Continued literacy, numeracy and digital skill development
  • Overview of Pathways through Senior Cycle
  • Introduction to employment, further education and other post school opportunities
  • Community participation and experiences
  • Work experience opportunity
  • Engagement with parents and families

The success of the pilot will be measured through outcomes that matter to the student rather than simply completion of programme content:

  • Increased independence
  • Confidence
  • Self-advocacy
  • Communication
  • Participation in school life
  • Successful work experience
  • Readiness for Senior Cycle
  • Family satisfaction
  • Student voice

For more information, please contact Fidelma on Fidelma@downsyndrome.ie.