Years 7 -9 - how to foster engagement
Aug 07, 2026
Research shows students beginning high school suffer, not just for a short time, but they often, lose confidence, are less inclined to be engaged or persevere. Students became more worried and sad, feeling less happiness and optimism and these feelings can last for years.
This is what's new - transition issues can last much longer than previously thought and students need support that continues well beyond the first days or weeks of high school..
They found students improved after 2 years, but did not return to primary school feelings of wellbeing, while at secondary school.
How to counter this?
Research also suggests stronger links between primary and high schools could help with transition.Transition programs between primary and secondary schools - already in place in many schools, but now look for deeper ongoing connections.
Helping students to develop practical learning skills, such as planning schoolwork, setting goals, breaking large tasks into smaller steps and trying a different strategy when they get stuck, may help them feel more confident and capable as they adjust to the demands of high school.
Read the article in The Conversation here
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