Volume 1 of this thesis contains a critical literature review paper and a full length report of a study to examine the decisions of parents’ of children with SEN when choosing a secondary provision for their child and the factors that influence this. The review presents the results of a literature scoping exercise looking at two linked areas: educational provision for pupils with a statement of Special Educational Needs in England and the decisions parents of these children make when choosing a secondary placement to send their child to at change of phase. The research paper uses a multiple case study design to explore this issue in the context of one LA. Pupils in the study had attended their local primary school in year 6 but then transferred to differing provision: mainstream high; resource provision within mainstream; or special school. An exploration of the factors leading to these different outcomes is considered. The study uses socio-cultural and activity theory as a framework in the design and data gathering phase of the research and subsequently to discuss and explore the results. Implications for future research and practice of Educational Psychologists are considered.