The Transition Challenge: Does Primary Leaving Examination (PLE) Performance influence Secondary School Performance?

The transition from primary level education to secondary level education is a critical phase in the academic journey of students. This study investigates the relationship between Primary Leaving Examination (PLE) performance and subsequent academic performance in Senior One across thirteen (13) selected topmost performing and second best performing secondary schools in Uganda. This study analyzed secondary data about performance of students in senior one in the year 2023 and their previous performance in PLE of the year 2022. This was collected from records of 4,331 students from thirteen (13) selected topmost and second best performing secondary schools in Uganda. Results of the statistical analysis found that while a general positive correlation exists between Primary Leaving Examination (PLE) performance and Senior One (S.1) performance, notable exceptions exist challenging the assumption that early academic success guarantees future excellence. The study provided actionable insights for educationalists, policy makers, parents among other key stakeholders that could contribute to the broader discourse on educational outcomes and student potential for success.