Supporting the Transition of Pupils from Primary to Secondary School using the MindJump Health and Well-being Programme

The promotion of health and well-being in schools is central to legislation and policy in Scotland (Scottish Executive, 2004; Scottish Executive, 2006; The Schools (Health Promotion and Nutrition) (Scotland) Act 2007). This paper will consider what we mean by health and well-being; the importance of prevention and early intervention; and the key role of schools. It will draw on conceptual, theoretical and empirical insights from literature with a particular focus on the importance of health and well-being during educational transitions, such as the move from primary to secondary school. The paper will present findings from a small-scale study into the impact of a newly developed health and well-being programme, MindJump, involving all P7 pupils in two primary schools. Twenty-one P7 pupils participated in 3 focus groups and two teachers took part in semi-structured interviews. Results provided evidence of the impact of the programme on the students’ learning. Pupils described what they had learnt from engaging with the programme; ways in which they were applying this learning in school and in the community; and anticipated use of newly acquired knowledge and skills in secondary school. The potential utility of health and well-being programmes in schools is considered.

Scottish Executive. (2004). Curriculum for excellence: Health and wellbeing principles and practice. Retrieved from http://www.educationscotland.gov.uk/learningandteaching/learningacrossthecurriculum/responsibilityofall/healthandwellbeing/principlesandpractice/index.asp

Scottish Executive. (2006). Getting it right for every child: Implementation plan. Edinburgh: Author.