A Transition Year that builds confidence, creativity and performance skills.
TRANSITION YEAR PROGRAMME WITH
MUSICAL THEATRE
The Independent Theatre Workshop offers a specialist Transition Year Programme that combines a full academic curriculum with professional performing arts training.
Now Enrolling for September 2027-28.
ASHFIELD Musical Theatre PROGRAMME
Where Academic Excellence Meets Creative Performance

Transition Year should open doors, build confidence and empower students to explore their potential. Ashfield College’s Transition Year Programmes have been designed to do exactly that.
This full-time programme is designed for students who want to develop their skills in singing, acting and dance while continuing to progress academically in a structured school environment.
Students divide their time between Ashfield College’s Dundrum campus and ITW’s purpose-built studios, gaining access to both high-quality classroom teaching and specialist performing arts training.
Why Choose This Programme?
This Transition Year pathway is designed for students who are passionate about performing arts and want a structured, high-quality training experience alongside their academic studies.
It offers:
- A full academic TY programme at Ashfield College
- Professional-level performing arts training
- Industry-experienced tutors and coaches
- A balanced and future-focused TY experience
- Strong preparation for Senior Cycle and further study
Programme Overview
The programme integrates a full TY academic curriculum with intensive vocational performing arts training:
- Full Transition Year academic programme delivered by Ashfield College
- Daily training in acting, singing and dance
- Development of performance technique and stage craft
- Theatre history, music theory and movement studies
- Scene study, audition technique and text work
- Introduction to theatre production and stage technology
Students are supported in building confidence, discipline, creativity and communication skills throughout the year.
If you are interested in hearing more about the Transition Year Programme enrolling for September 2027-28 contact our admissions team on +353 (0)1 490 40 50 or admissions@ashfieldcollege.ie
Students follow the full Transition Year curriculum, including:
- Core subjects: English, Irish, Maths and a modern language
- Introduction to Leaving Certificate subjects
- TY modules such as Barista Training, Driver Theory and more
- Two weeks of work experience
- A structured and supportive academic environment
Training takes place five days a week in a professional studio environment and includes:
- Acting, Singing and Dance technique
- Musical Theatre performance training
- Scene study and character development
- Audition preparation and performance skills
- Shakespeare and classical text work
- Dance styles and movement training
- Anatomy of movement for performers
- Theatre production and technical skills
Students also take part in:
- Live performance opportunities
- Showcases and in-house productions
- Theatre trips, including workshops and West End experiences in London
Alongside performance training, students develop key life skills including:
- Confidence and self-expression
- Discipline and time management
- Communication and collaboration
- Creativity and resilience
This ensures students are fully supported as they progress into Senior Cycle and beyond.
Students train in professional facilities designed for performing arts education, including:
Black box theatre and performance space
Mirrored dance studio with lighting and sound rig
Dedicated singing studio with recording and tech resources
Speech and drama room with specialist library
These facilities provide an industry-standard training environment throughout the year.
The programme includes a varied weekly schedule of classes, workshops and performance-based learning.
Students benefit from:
- Professional theatre training
- Creative development projects
- School theatre trips and workshops
- Performance showcases throughout the year
- Work experience opportunities
Upcoming Event:
TY Musical Theatre Programme Open Day
Date: TBC

Discover how our Transition Year Performing Arts Programme builds confidence, creativity, and personal growth.
Ask your questions and see if Ashfield is the right fit for your TY year and beyond.
Location: The Independent Theatre Workshop Ltd, Clonskeagh, Dublin 6
Spaces are limited for our Transition Year Programme. Register your interest below to receive programme updates, open day reminders and enrolment information.