Trinity Access Programme (TAP) – Our School Partnership
Transition Year Programmes
Bridge to College
Our Transition Year students take part in Trinity’s Bridge to College programme from September to May. Working in small groups before and after Christmas, students experience college-style teaching, develop research and leadership skills, and enjoy a real insight into university life.
Code Plus – Women in STEM
This September programme encourages young women to explore coding and STEM subjects in a hands-on, creative way. Students learn practical skills while discovering new opportunities in science and technology careers.
Street Law – Law Society of Ireland
Transition Year students take part in interactive workshops led by trainee solicitors who introduce them to real-life legal scenarios. The programme builds confidence, critical thinking and a strong understanding of the justice system.
TCD TY Programmes
Throughout the year, Transition Year students can apply for a variety of Trinity College outreach programmes. These allow them to try out new subjects, meet college mentors and develop new academic interests.
Senior Cycle Supports
6th Year English Lecture Series (Higher Level)
Held each September, this series gives Higher Level English students the chance to attend university-level lectures on key Leaving Certificate texts, helping deepen their understanding and preparation for exams.
Higher Level Maths Grinds – 6th Year
Delivered in partnership with the Actuaries Society of Ireland, these grinds support selected students in strengthening their Higher Level Maths skills ahead of the Leaving Certificate.
6th Year Mentoring Programme
Students meet regularly with teacher-mentors for guidance on study planning, wellbeing and life after school. This programme ensures every 6th year has the support they need during this important stage.
Irish Grinds & Oral Preparation Day (6th Year)
A small group of students take part in targeted Irish support after Christmas, including an Oral Irish Day to build fluency and confidence.
HPAT Information Evening (6th Year)
For those considering Medicine, our HPAT evening provides valuable information on exam structure, scoring and preparation.
Junior Cycle Opportunities
Scholars Ireland (2nd Year)
Ten students work with a PhD mentor from October to Christmas, attending weekly lectures and completing a small research project. The programme introduces students to university-style learning and nurtures academic curiosity.
Campus Tour (2nd Year)
All 2nd Year students visit Trinity College Dublin for a campus tour in spring. This trip helps students imagine themselves in university and motivates them in their studies.
Med Day (2nd Year)
Held in late January or early February, Med Day offers 2nd Years a hands-on introduction to health and medical sciences through workshops and demonstrations.
Exam Year Supports
Higher Level Maths Grinds – Junior Cycle & Leaving Certificate
Following the mock exams, selected Higher Level Maths students in both Junior Cycle and Leaving Certificate can attend additional grinds to reinforce key topics before state exams.
Awards & Recognition
TAP Awards
Teachers nominate students each year for the TAP Awards, recognising leadership, effort and commitment. Leadership Awards are presented to one Transition Year and one 6th Year student.
College Awareness Week (November each year)
During College Awareness Week, our school hosts inspiring talks, guest speakers, past pupils and TAP ambassadors. Students sign up for sessions that interest them, helping them explore future pathways.
Whole School Surveys
As part of our partnership with TAP, students and parents may be invited to complete short surveys to gather feedback on teaching, learning and student engagement. These surveys take only a few minutes and ensure that the voices of our school community guide future improvements.
Our TAP Record – Pathways, Mentoring & Leadership
Throughout the year, we document all TAP-related activities under three key areas:
- Pathways to College
- Mentoring
- Leadership
This ongoing work helps ensure that every student in our school is supported to reach their full potential and to explore all opportunities available to them.
