The Original TY Mini-Stay Experience in Spain
From the classroom to the coast: activity-based learning in northern and southern Spain
Adiós Granada, Welcome to Málaga!
Founder’s Note
Emily Allen
- a trusted name among Irish families
As a pioneer of the first Transition Year programme in 1994, I seized the opportunity to travel alone to Spain — an experience that would ultimately change the course of my life. That journey sparked a lifelong connection with Spain and inspired me to create an activity-based Spanish immersion programme that reflects the core values of the TY philosophy: social awareness, personal development, integration, teamwork, problem-solving and independent learning.
Living in Spain for over 25 years as an Irish parent and educator
gives me an unparalleled advantage
in understanding and designing experiences specifically tailored to Irish Transition Year students. This insight shapes every aspect of the programme and sets the experience apart from courses
run purely as commercial language programmes operated by Spanish business owners.
In 2018/2019, I introduced the original TY Mini-Stay Experience in Granada, combining structured language learning with activity-based cultural immersion. This proven framework has helped countless students develop not only their Spanish, but also their confidence, independence and life skills. After saying “Adiós” to Granada
in 2025, I am now delighted to be based on the coast in Málaga, collaborating with accredited local providers. I am especially pleased to continue the programme I established in the beautiful seaside city of A Coruña
in 2022 — a place that was also my first home in Spain from 2001 to 2010.
A Trusted Choice for Irish Families
