• Are you transitioning to secondary school?
• Are you a parent or carer of a student transitioning to secondary school?

The transition from primary to secondary school can be challenging for some children. This study explores how ethnic similarity impacts emotional status, social interactions, and mental health during this transition.

Who can take part?

• A Year 6 student aged 10-11 years old awaiting transition to secondary education in September 2024.
• A parent or carer of a Year 6 student aged 10-11 years old awaiting transition to secondary education in September 2024.

What is involved?

We are interested in hearing about the experiences of students and families during the transition to secondary school. The study consists of two parts: one before the transition and one after.

• As an adult, you will complete an online form for the first part, providing information about your child, demographics, social status, and ethnic identity.

• As a student, you will be asked to complete two online forms, one before and one after the transition. These forms will ask about your background, community connection, societal integration, mental health, and general feelings. We will follow up with you after you start secondary school to understand your experiences better. Additionally, we will request information about the ethnic diversity of your primary and secondary schools from your school.

Your data will be kept confidential and secure, accessible only to the research team.

What are the risks and benefits?

There are no anticipated risks. Participants will receive a £10 voucher after each data collection point (total £20).

For questions, contact:

• Serendi Hazir: s.hazir@lancaster.ac.uk
• Dr Judith Lunn (Supervisor): j.lunn1@lancaster.ac.uk