This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Project helps pupils prepare for secondary school
30/08/2004
Deputy Finance and Public Services Minister Tavish Scott
today saw first-hand how pupils in Renfrewshire are making
a smoother transition from primary to secondary.
The Minister met teachers and pupils at Renfrew High to
find out more about Renfrewshire Council's P7 transition
scheme. It aims to ensure pupils settle into S1 easier and
enjoy a good start to life in secondary school.
Mr Scott met pupils from Renfrew High and Park Mains
High in Erskine. He said:
"The transition between primary and secondary has long
been a matter of interest and often concern. Many pupils
find the change difficult and attainment often dips,
particularly in Maths and English.
"The Education Inspectorate highlighted important
concerns about these areas in a report in 1999. And, less
formally, many involved in Scottish education continue to
see ongoing problems with the transition from primary to
secondary.
"The Inspectorate is currently working on a review of
recent inspection evidence in order that they can offer an
update in this important area. This report is nearing
completion but is not yet ready for publication.
"I was therefore encouraged to hear first-hand how
Renfrewshire Council is addressing this issue in the
meantime. Their primary seven transitional scheme is an
excellent project which prepares pupils for life in
secondary school.
"Speaking to some of the pupils and teachers from
Renfrew High and Park Mains High, it is clear this scheme
is working well. It is an example that other authorities
and schools could learn from - innovative ideas such as
this are vital if we are to give every child the chance to
fulfil their potential."
John Rooney, Renfrewshire Council's Head of Support for
Learning, said:
"We believe Renfrewshire's approach on this issue has
pioneered new ways of helping pupils and their families
make the transition from primary to secondary school. Over
the last year, primary seven pupils in over three quarters
of Renfrewshire schools have taken part in the transition
workshops and summer programmes offered by our family
support service in conjunction with local secondary
schools.
"The key aims include improving the confidence of
pupils, raising awareness of issues such as making new
friends and bullying, and perhaps most importantly making
youngsters and parents aware of the wide range of support
on offer. Each of Renfrewshire's four area family support
teams has run a successful transition programme over the
last two summers."