Abstract

The transition from primary school to secondary school is an important milestone for young people and the challenges that students face at this time have been widely researched. However, there seems to be a gap in how schools proactively support students to prepare for the transition to ensure that their mental health and wellbeing is at the forefront of decision-making. With one in seven young people diagnosed with mental health problems, and puberty occurring around the time of transition, it is critical that schools consider the impact of this period of change on their students. Through a comprehensive literature review and desktop-based research, this current paper explores how schools can impact this time of heightened vulnerability by considering the importance of sense of belonging, relationships between students, staff and parents, and positive school climate. The results will reflect these areas and show that a proactive approach to mental health teacher training and whole-school programmes that develop students’ social and emotional skills, resilience and relationships are key to students thriving during this transition from primary school to secondary school. This paper concludes with recommendations for schools to implement to better support the transition period to enhance the wellbeing of its students as well as suggestions for future research.