ABSTRACT
Transfer from primary or middle to secondary or upper school is one of the most important and eventful episodes that occurs during a pupil's career. It's like starting a new life going to the other school. Inter-pupil relationships were also of interest. There are indications even to the most casual observer that, for most pupils, the 'informal' culture is of more centrality than the school 'formal' culture. The research was conducted in a 12-18 mixed comprehensive school of about 2000 pupils, and in one of its seven feeder middle schools. The schools were in a town in the Midlands. The research assistant also shared 'out-of-lesson' time with the pupils, conversing with them in the informal areas of corridors and playgrounds, accompanying them on school trips, going with them on the induction visits to the upper school, and attending parents' evenings. The chapter also presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in this book.
