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      Bridging the transition from Year 6 to Year 7: A New Zealand context

      Gilroy, Kirsty
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      Gilroy, K. (2018). Bridging the transition from Year 6 to Year 7: A New Zealand context (Thesis, Master of Education (MEd)). The University of Waikato, Hamilton, New Zealand. Retrieved from https://hdl.handle.net/10289/12201
      Permanent Research Commons link: https://hdl.handle.net/10289/12201
      Abstract
      The purpose of this study was to investigate the processes in place for vulnerable students when transitioning from Year 6 at primary school, to Year 7 at intermediate or middle school. Specifically, it investigates what data on vulnerable students is recorded, how this data is utilised when transitioning students, how it is disseminated by receiving schools and in what ways it is useful in supporting students.

      A convergent parallel mixed methods study design was used (Creswell & Clark, 2016); a national survey, a local Community of Learning / Kahui Ako survey and interviews were undertaken with five leaders from primary or intermediate/middle schools. This research identified a disconnect between primary feeder schools and receiving intermediate and middle schools in terms of what data is most valued, how it is utilised and how it is disseminated.

      Respondents recognised the difficulties inherent in developing effective transition processes and the academic, social, behavioural and emotional risks to all students during transition, with particular concern for the vulnerable learners. Respondents also acknowledged the benefit of working across schools and across communities and expressed a desire to address the needs of Māori and Pasifika learners.

      Recommendations are made for schools and teaching professionals to:

      i. engage in collective and collaborative professional discussion on the type, accuracy and value of data being collected and utilised

      ii. investigate changes in policy and practice with theory and current research as a basis for action

      iii. co-construct what skills and knowledge it is felt would be beneficial for a Year 6 learner to have in order to successfully transition to Year 7 at an intermediate/middle school

      iv. build understanding and relationships within the wider community through the Community of Learning / Kahui Ako

      v. collectively address the challenges of addressing and catering for Māori and Pasifika learners along with other diverse learners, so that there are clear and successful learning pathways
      Date
      2018
      Type
      Thesis
      Degree Name
      Master of Education (MEd)
      Supervisors
      Peters, Sally
      Publisher
      The University of Waikato
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      All items in Research Commons are provided for private study and research purposes and are protected by copyright with all rights reserved unless otherwise indicated.
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      • Masters Degree Theses [2385]
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