Relationships: The key to successful transition from primary to secondary school?

Abstract

Although change can be considered an inevitable part of life, the process itself can be both challenging and confronting. This is no less the case than for early adolescents as they negotiate the transition from primary to secondary school. Whilst this transition can be considered a regular part of the formal school experience, it can represent a significant challenge to all who are involved including students, parents and teachers. As schools plan to support these stakeholders through the process an understanding of the issues faced by each group is important. Whilst transition may be fraught a focus on the relational aspects of the process can help to ameliorate many of the challenges presented during this change. This article examines the importance for schools of a focus on relationships to ensure that the concerns of all stakeholders are acknowledged and accounted for in the planning of school transition programs.