Navigating the complexity of transition: sharing the views of learners during the primary-secondary school transition in Wales

The transition from primary to secondary school has been the focus of recent research, framed around challenges in relation to academic development, social integration and wellbeing. It has been about learners, rather than being based upon their own experiences. This paper explores the voices of learners in navigating the primary-secondary transition drawing upon Jindal-Snape’s [Jindal-Snape, D. 2023. “Multiple and multi-dimensional educational and life transitions: Conceptualization, theorization and XII pillars of transitions.” In International Encyclopaedia of Education, edited by R. J. Tierney, F. Rizvi, and K. Erkican, 4th ed. d., 530–543. Elsevier.] Multiple and Multi-dimensional Transitions framework (MMT). Analysis of qualitative data from focus groups recognised the role of ‘significant others’ in supporting learners during the transition and acknowledged mixed feelings of excitement and apprehension experienced by learners. We conclude by making recommendations for schools, parents/guardians and learners in navigating this transition.