Pupils transferring to secondary school are positive about science and look forward to practical work. The research reported here explored Y6 and Y7 pupils' perceptions of practical science in school and the world of work. Pupils at both ages saw practical work as a natural and enjoyable consequence of scientific endeavour and of use to society. They made a number of links between school science and the work of scientists. Y6 pupils were more likely than Y7 pupils to link practical science with product testing and to future careers. The findings of the research and further thinking about KS2/3 transition are used to point out useful features that might help design bridging work in science. (Contains 3 tables and 2 online resources.)