Kildare TY students urged to take part in charity work in South Africa

Transition Year students across Ireland and Kildare are being invited to take part in the Mellon Educate TY Blitz.

The initiative offers a unique opportunity to travel to South Africa and experience hands-on engagement with primary and high school students living in some of the world’s most disadvantaged communities, and to help transform their educational journey.

Mellon Educate’s TY Blitz programme has brought Irish students to South African townships, where they’ve helped transform schools through hands-on volunteering.

From painting classrooms and building walls to reading with children and assisting with early learning, these students have experienced a powerful mix of cultural exchange, teamwork, and purpose-driven action.

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What Is the TY Blitz?

The next TY Blitz will take place in March 2026 and will see groups of students from across the country travel with their teachers and group leaders for a seven-day trip, including five full days of volunteering in township schools.

Students will get to see the direct impact of their work while forming strong friendships with their peers and bonds with local communities.

All travel, insurance, safety protocols, and accommodations are arranged by Mellon Educate.

Each TY student is given the support and structure to grow in confidence, leadership, and global awareness. Many describe it as the most impactful experience of their school years.

A Meaningful TY Experience

The programme fits seamlessly into TY goals, offering students personal development, team building, and a deep understanding of global citizenship. It’s a meaningful alternative to commercial TY trips, combining travel with real-world impact.

As one past participant said, “The TY Blitz was so good that I spent the entire flight home planning how I could go back to Cape Town with Mellon Educate again”.

Parents and teachers often note the maturity and sense of perspective students return home with, along with lasting memories and pride in having made a difference.

How to Apply

Applications are now open to TY students across the country. Interested teachers, students and families in Kildare can visit melloneducate.com to find more information and apply online.

Parental consent is required, TY groups travelling must have either a teacher or parent/guardian to accompany them, and places are limited.

Mellon Educate will be offering both virtual information sessions and in-school presentations over the coming months for those interested.

If you’re a Kildare student seeking a challenge, a parent looking for a meaningful TY opportunity, or a teacher wanting to enrich your school’s programme, the Mellon Educate TY Blitz offers an experience that builds more than just classrooms; it builds character, connection, and lasting change.