Colman Noctor: Students can face significant challenges during second year 

The establishment of friendships and interactive patterns that occur during in second year is pivotal to shaping their future school years

Second year typically marks the move from one-on-one friendships to a group dynamic where young people identify in larger groups, and the power hierarchy is established. Picture: iStock

MANY column inches are dedicated to back-to-school issues at this time of year, but one topic is often overlooked: the transition to second year.

While I recognise the importance of the first day in primary school and the challenges of moving to secondary school, second year is one of the most significant developmental periods for children. The leap from first to second year sees a move away from parental and adult control towards peer and group influence.