The transition of learners from primary to high school continues to present significant academic, social and psychosocial challenges for learners, educators and families.

The Northern Areas Alumni Network was led by Nadia Domingo and educators from participating high schools in the Northern Areas.

A key outcome of the discussion was the shared agreement that any meaningful support must begin with a grounded understanding of these challenges from the perspectives of Grade 8 learners, educators, and parents/guardians.

This positions the work within a participatory and relational approach, aligned to the Engagement Office’s commitment to co-constructed, contextually responsive engagement.

To initiate this process, the Engagement Office has issued a formal invitation to participating schools to attend a Grade 8 learner engagement session at the Science Dome, Ocean Sciences Campus on 15 May.

This session will create a structured space for learners to reflect on and share their transition experiences, while also exposing them to pathways in science, innovation and higher education.

The engagement will be facilitated by the Engagement Office, with support from Psychology student volunteers participating through the Hubs of Convergence (HoC).

This initiative marks the first step in a broader collaborative process aimed at informing responsive support strategies for Grade 8 learners across the Northern Areas.