Children and young people naturally pass through a number of stages as they grow and develop. There are also changes that they encounter during their education that include: moving from the home environment and attending an early years setting, school or nursery; transferring from primary school to secondary school and also from secondary education into post school provisions.
Such changes are commonly referred to as transitions. Some children may also face transitions arising from personal or particular circumstances not necessarily encountered by all their peers. These could include: family illness or the death of a close relative; divorce and family break-up; issues related to sexuality; adoption; the process of asylum; disability; parental mental health; and the consequences of crime.
The Additional Support for Learning Act introduces a new framework for planning transitions as children and young people enter the educational system, progress through the different stages and finally leave school.

A Financial Education project has eased the transition process for schools in North Ayrshire.


How the Quality Contact project in Dundee helps students to feel happy and confident when leaving primary and starting secondary school.

Read about the information and practical help which is available for young people with additional support needs who are getting ready to leave school and join the adult community.

Information about a project and accompanying resources which aim to support young people through primary-secondary transitions and develop their skills and self-esteem.