Primary–secondary transition

In Scotland the transition between primary school and secondary school has traditionally been a major landmark in a child’s life. Between 11 and 12 years of age the majority of Scottish children experience this transition which requires a physical move to a new school environment where new people, new expectations and new practices all have to be negotiated. The move from primary to secondary school has also meant a challenge for educators who have debated a range of issues consistently across a number of generations. The primary-secondary transition might be considered to be the missing jigsaw piece in the school curriculum. This chapter looks at this key stage in a learner’s education as both a social transition and an academic transition and will highlight recurring issues.