‘You have to go on a journey’. Looked After Children’s experiences of primary to secondary school transition.

Starting secondary school is a significant time for all pupils. It can be particularly challenging for vulnerable groups such as looked after children (LAC), many of whom have already experienced challenges, instability, and other significant transitions in their lives. Previous research concerning LAC and education has mainly focused on the academic outcomes of LAC, which has been found to be consistently low compared to their non-looked after peers. Previous studies have also focused on educational interventions for LAC, although evidence of impact is lacking. Research focusing on the perspectives of LAC themselves regarding their educational experiences is scarce, particularly regarding secondary school transition. This study explored the lived experiences of two young people who are looked after and who have transitioned from primary school to secondary school. Semi-structured interviews were analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA). Four overarching themes emerged which summarised the LAC’s experiences: 1) A journey of risk and reward 2) social network 3) fantasy and reality 4) coping with change. Key findings and implications for Educational Psychology practice are discussed.