Step up to Secondary School

Service Description

Entering secondary school involves substantial changes: new routines, larger environments, different social groups, and heightened academic expectations. Research shows that many pupils experience a “transition dip”, a decline in engagement, confidence and wellbeing, as they move into Year 7. Research emphasises that gaps in information, especially about pupils’ needs, strengths, and effective supports, lead to mis-alignment at the start of Year 7. SEND pupils are particularly vulnerable when educators lack key contextual data. Early insight means teachers can plan personalised support strategies, anticipate necessary accommodations, and focus pastoral conversations from day one rather than catching up later.