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Centring Pupil Voice in Transition
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Authors
Date
2025
Educational Level
ISCED Level 1 Primary Education
Curriculum Area
Geographical Setting
United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
Abstract
Context: This action research case study explores how pupil voice can be meaningfully embedded in transition planning for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). Conducted in a mainstream all-through school, the study focuses on Year 6 pupils preparing to move to secondary education, using a person-centred approach through the 'This is Me' project.
Aims: The research aimed to evaluate how person-centred meetings, supported by pupil-led resources, could enhance children's ability to express their views during Phase Transfer Annual Reviews. It also sought to understand how this approach influenced parental engagement and confidence in the transition process.
Methods: The research employs an action research framework, consisting of two cycles: Action Research Cycle 1 and Cycle 2. Each cycle includes planning, implementing, and reviewing phases to refine the research question and actions based on the feedback and data collected from participant experiences. Ethical consent was obtained from all participants to ensure confidentiality in the data dissemination.
Findings: The findings reveal that the 'This is me' project significantly enhances children's ability to communicate their thoughts and feelings regarding their transitions. It demonstrates that children feel more secure and understood, which allows parents to engage more meaningfully in the discussions of their children's aspirations and concerns.
Implications: The study suggests that centring pupil voice in transition planning could reshape the approach to reviews and discussions involving children with ISEND. Other educators may observe the benefits of involving students actively in conversations about their educational journeys, potentially leading to improved engagement from both children and parents in similar contexts. This may inform future practices in educational settings focused on inclusion and participatory decision-making.
Description
Keywords (free text)
inclusion-special educational needs and disabilities (SEND),pupil voice,transition review,parent engagement