A new study from Umeå University shows that teachers have different views on how to prepare students for the transition from middle school to junior high. This affects students' experience of the start in grade 7. Doctoral student Josefin Ånger emphasizes the need for collaboration.
The study points out that teachers are not in agreement on what the transition between middle school and junior high entails. Many see the handover of information about students as the core of the work. Focus lies mainly on the end of grade 6 and the first weeks in grade 7. Long-term preparations receive less space according to the results. The transition has a strong special education focus where students in need of support are at the center. Josefin Ånger says that much collaboration is required to facilitate for the students. The study points to the need for greater consensus among teachers. It was published on June 8 2026 and is based on research at Umeå University.