Anyone who has been involved in Transition Year knows that An Gaisce – The President’s Award is a big deal. That’s why we’re delighted to be a major part of it this year.
An Gaisce is a nationally recognised programme for young people aged 14–25. It is a personal challenge set by the President of Ireland, Michael D. Higgins, encouraging young people to dream big, push their limits, and discover their potential.
The aim of An Gaisce is to offer a fun, rewarding, and meaningful experience for young people. Through the programme, students explore their interests, build confidence, and develop valuable life skills. Along the way, they can make a positive impact on their communities and their own futures.
Participants complete a series of Challenge Areas, including:
Personal Skill – learning something new
Physical Recreation – staying active and healthy
Community Involvement – giving back and making a difference
Adventure Journey – taking part in a shared outdoor challenge
By completing these challenges, students earn their Gaisce Award while enjoying the journey and learning through experience.
Partnerships play a vital role in strengthening the An Gaisce experience.
They expand the range of activities available, introduce new perspectives, and make the journey more engaging and inclusive for students. Ultimately, these collaborations help ensure that every participant can find a pathway that suits their interests and strengths.
It’s a true win-win for schools, students, and partners alike.
At The B!G Idea, we focus on helping students develop the creative mindset needed to tackle today’s biggest challenges.
We work closely with schools to inspire students to create, experiment, invent, and even make mistakes — all in a supportive and fun environment. Our programme builds confidence, encourages curiosity, and connects students with their communities.
Through expert mentors from industry, students receive real-world guidance and insight. This helps them connect classroom learning with practical, real-life impact while also supporting their An Gaisce journey.
With An Gaisce and The B!G Idea working together, this year offers an exciting opportunity for students to grow, learn, and achieve something truly meaningful.
We can’t wait to see young people across Ireland take on new challenges, build lifelong skills, and celebrate their achievements along the way.
