Aimee O’Connor

My research addresses the policy-practice gap in Ireland’s preschool to primary school transitions, a critical stage for children’s health, well-being, and learning which can have economic implications in the future. Smooth transitions build confidence and social belonging, while poor transitions risk anxiety, disengagement, and long-term inequalities. By highlighting inconsistencies in implementing transition strategies, this study calls for a compulsory national framework to standardise effective practice. Embedding transitions within health and society debates, the research aims to influence policy so every child experiences equitable, high-quality early learning, supporting lifelong learning and well-being.