The transition from primary to secondary school: perspectives of students with autism spectrum disorder and their parents

The perspectives of students with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) during the period of transition from mainstream primary to mainstream secondary school are under-researched. This paper reports a longitudinal investigation into the feelings, expectations and experiences of nine students and their parents during such a period. Employing student and parent perspectives, students’ expectations of the move to secondary school were generally negative; there was a combination of positive and negative feelings prior to the move; and their experience of the move was better than expected. Findings are considered in the context of the literature on transition for the general student population and the restricted literature for students with autism spectrum disorder. Comparisons are drawn between the students’ and parents’ perspectives of transition experiences and support. Limitations of the research are considered. Implications for policy makers, professionals and researchers are discussed.