TEACHER RESOURCES/ADVENTURE:Sport is a big draw for many Transition Year students. While athletics, basketball, camogie, Gaelic football, hockey, handball, rugby, and soccer are the common staples of most second-level schools in Ireland, TY is an opportunity to try out new sports – and to bring sport into the classroom.

Fencing, kayaking, horse-riding, and self-defence are just some of the options that teachers can introduce to their TY students.

Adventure centres around Ireland, as well as a number of private companies, are the main providers. Students can also explore the benefits of exercise and the history of sport.

A sample of TY sports resources – for both in and outside the classroom – includes Eco Adventures Ireland. Run in conjunction with youth hostel organisation An Óige, Eco Adventures have venues in Dublin, Wicklow and Kerry with a range of packages for TY teachers. Activities include archery, mountain biking, treasure hunt, orienteering, hill walking, and other team games.

Visitors to the Wicklow centre can take part in geography fieldwork, exploring the Glencree Valley and River. This is one of the cheapest options for schools, with residential packages beginning at €60 per person, non-residential packages including ecology studies from €30 per person, and non-residential multi-activity days from €40 per person. See ecoadventureireland.ie, and schooldays.ie

WRITE A REPORT

Senior Cycle Major Games Project – a deep examination of a chosen sport, team, and sportsperson of their choice. Students then write a report on their findings. Participants should ideally have internet access to complete this project. See teachnet.ie/mcarey for project details.