A study of the views and experiences of student’s transition and the role of the guidance counsellor with two post-primary schools

A fundamental aim of this research is to undertake a study exploring the views and experiences of student’s transition and the role of the guidance counsellor with two schools. This research aims to establish what are the initial experiences and challenges in the student’s transition and the student’s views on the role of the guidance counsellor in their transition. Additionally, the researcher will explore the role of the guidance counsellor in the transition process from the perspective of the guidance counsellor. From a research perspective, internationally much of the research that exist centres around the area of school transfer and transition programmes (Hanewald 2013, Tudge et al 2009 and Rice et al 2011). The main body of research in relation to transition in Ireland is conducted by Smyth (2017) and Smyth et al (2004). This study provides and insight into the views and experience of current 2nd year students looking back on their transition experience in 1st year. The data collection involved the use of surveys, focus groups and semi-structured interviews. A number of themes emerged from this study and the conclusions of this research highlight that the transition experience is mainly a positive one. However, greater clarification of guidance counsellor’s role is required for junior cycle students. A number of recommendations were generated to inform the practice of guidance counselling going forward.