At St. Stephen’s CE Primary School we recognise how important a successful transition is to our pupils with additional needs. We offer a carefully planned transition programme doing all we can to support children and their families to ensure the smooth transition of pupils from class to class, but also from school to school. support children with SEND when they are moving on to another class or leaving this school.
The SENCo liaises with receiving teachers at the end of each school year to ensure that staff understand the learning needs and requirements of all pupils with SEND and supports children, parents and staff throughout the year. During the summer term the SENCo and staff work with transition workers from Secondary Schools to prepare children, families and school staff for the transition of pupils into Key Stage 3.
Secondary school transitions:
We work in close partnership with our feeder secondary schools to provide an enhanced level of transition for those who we feel would benefit. This may take the form of additional visits for pupils, one to one / small group working with secondary school staff or pupil mentoring from secondary schools. Teachers from feeder secondary schools visit our school to work with the children, which helps to build up a familiarity before the children move on to secondary school.
The period of transition depends on the individual needs of the pupil. If it is felt appropriate, secondary school colleagues will attend Annual Reviews to meet the current class teacher, parents and most importantly the pupil. We have found this strategy particularly useful in easing any worries or concerns parents and pupils may have. We are keen to involve parents and carers as much as possible in their child’s transition to secondary school. At St Stephen’s CE Primary School, we take opportunities to work alongside parents and carers to visit secondary schools in advance of secondary placement applications being submitted to the Local Authority.
This ensures that parents and carers can make the most informed placement decision for their child. When a secondary school has been allocated to the child, parents are fully involved and consulted at all stages of the transition process.
Transition between classes in school:
Transition from each year group is supported so that the children have met with their new teachers and are familiar with the new classroom environment and organisation. We hold “moving up” days which provide an opportunity for children to meet with their new class teacher. Teachers meet to ‘hand over’ their class, which provides an opportunity to discuss any additional needs and support that children may need.
Nursery to Reception transition:
New starters for Reception children are provided with the following opportunities:
- Parent Open Information Event
- Children’s visits to Reception class in the Summer Term
- Pupils and Parents invited for School Lunch
- Moving up day
If you would like to discuss your SEND requirements in detail please contact the school to arrange an appointment.
