Call for Evidence: The Loss of the Love of Learning
In Spring 2025, Steve Witherden MP, Chair of the Education All Part Parliamentary Group (APPG) circulated the following
“Today we are launching an inquiry into the loss of a love of learning. We want to hear from teachers, parents, students, and anyone else involved in education.
Education is currently in crisis. More and more students are being home-schooled, attendance is falling and concerns around SEND and mental health for staff and pupils are rising.
We want your input on how we can reignite the love of learning”
The response from Pupil Pathways
The love of learning is one of the most valuable qualities a child can develop. It’s evident in young children as they eagerly explore their world, driven by curiosity and discovery.
Yet, as they progress through the education system, many seem to lose this natural enthusiasm. If learning is an innate joy, why do so many young people disengage from it?
There is no single answer to this complex issue, but one significant factor is the transition from primary to secondary school. The shift to a new learning environment, with unfamiliar expectations and structures, can be unsettling. Without careful support, this transition can disrupt a child’s confidence, sense of belonging, and ultimately their motivation to learn.
Research by Ofsted has highlighted concerns about the quality of subject transitions, particularly in areas like modern foreign languages. When knowledge and progress are not effectively carried forward, students may struggle to see continuity in their learning, impacting both their confidence and interest in the subject. The report points to issues of motivation, curriculum design, and the effectiveness of transition processes as contributing factors to declining engagement.
A smooth and well-supported transition can help sustain a child’s enthusiasm for learning. Schools that prioritise early and structured transitions, starting in Year 6 and extending into Year 7, are better placed to ensure that students feel prepared and supported. Providing secondary schools with relevant, timely, and structured information about incoming pupils helps create an environment where every child can feel a sense of belonging from day one.
The transition to secondary school is not just a challenge; it is also an opportunity. New subjects, new ways of learning, and new relationships can all reignite curiosity, but only if managed well. However, without the right support, even the most confident learners can become disengaged, and the love of learning that once came so naturally can be difficult to restore.
The discussion around how we maintain, and nurture children’s love of learning is vital.
By addressing the challenges of transition with thoughtful strategies, we can help ensure that students remain engaged, motivated, and ready to thrive in their education.