The transition from primary to secondary school marks a significant change for most students.
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It usually involves an adjustment to a new, generally larger school, where students go from being the oldest the youngest.
Students in secondary school have multiple classes with different teachers and classmates, as well as an increase in workload, responsibilities and travel to and from school.
According to a study by the Centre for Education Statistics and Evaluation, how well students cope with the transition to secondary school can have ongoing implications for their emotional and academic development.
"Poor adjustment to secondary school has been associated with disengagement and non-completion," the report says.
The study goes on to say that a sense of school belonging is also important to broader wellbeing outcomes.
"It has been positively associated with higher levels of happiness, self-esteem, improved coping skills and lower emotional distress, and inversely related to incidents of disruptive behaviour, bullying and risk-taking behaviours," the report said.
"Understanding the types of students who are at risk of a poor transition, and the factors that support a successful transition, can strengthen existing school-based programs to support and improve students' experiences and ensure schools' resources are directed where they are needed most."
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A survey titled Tell Them From Me conducted among NSW primary and secondary students in 2015 and 2016 highlighted the importance of primary schools fostering a strong sense of belonging in their senior students before their transition to secondary school.
Recent research has found that teacher support has a strong effect on school belonging.
Parents also play an important role in supporting students during the transition to secondary school.
At this age, parents also have the main responsibility of organising their children's extra-curricular activities, and students who participate in activities outside school during the primary years may also have a smoother transition to secondary school.
The report says participation in such activities can offer students experience in managing emotions, interpersonal development and social skills.
It also found that students who have a family member to talk to about problems or friendship issues at school are more likely to report a positive sense of belonging in year 7.
Research has highlighted that students have a smoother transition to secondary school if parents provide academic encouragement and support, monitor their child's activities and intervene in a positive way when help is needed.
