HSI Blog Squad

Transition Year (TY) is an optional year in the Irish education system that sits between Junior Cycle and Senior Cycle. Instead of focusing on state exams, TY is designed to help students develop confidence, independence and practical skills through project work, enterprise, community involvement and work experience, making it a popular option for students considering high school study abroad in Ireland.

Planning a January start in Ireland? Learn how mid-year high school placements work and who they suit best.

A practical New Year toolkit to help exchange students reset, set goals, and build better habits for Term 2 in Ireland.

What to expect from Christmas with your Irish host family—traditions, etiquette, gifts and how to feel at home during the holidays.

It’s nearly Christmas - but what happens if you’re an exchange student in Ireland? Here’s how holiday stays and travel home really work.

Smooth Christmas travel for students in Ireland — flights, baggage, documents and stress-free goodbyes made simple.

Irish Christmas tests can feel daunting for exchange students, but with the right plan, you can prepare calmly and perform your best.

Learn how HSI keeps every student safe, supported and thriving while studying abroad in Ireland.

Learn how Irish schools test, assess, and build study habits - plus get a free weekly planner for better results.

How to manage pocket money, SIMs, and spending as a high school student in Ireland — easy, safe, and budget-friendly.

Feeling homesick during your Irish exchange? Discover evidence-based tips to boost wellbeing and feel at home again.

Discover affordable day trips and homestay fun for Ireland’s mid-term break — explore, relax, and make every euro count!

Experience Halloween where it began! Discover Irish traditions, mid-term fun and safety tips for exchange students.

New school, new team. Your fast, friendly guide to GAA, rugby, football & more - at school first, then clubs if you want extra.

Monthly visits and welfare reports give parents peace of mind during their teen’s high school study abroad in Ireland.

How to dress smart for Irish autumn weather as a high school exchange student — layering tips, packing list & local buys.

Ireland’s buses, trains, and student Leap Card make travel safe, easy, and affordable for high school exchange students.

Understand how Irish subject choices work in Junior Cycle, TY and Senior Cycle for international high school students.

Top tips on making friends fast in an Irish school, from classroom etiquette to slang you’ll actually hear.

First-week decoded: timetables, uniforms, lockers, and who to ask for help in an Irish secondary school.