At St Thomas More RC Primary School we recognise how important a successful transition is to our pupils with additional needs.
Reception
Children starting our Reception Class are provided with the following opportunities:
- Open morning (Autumn term)
- Parents’ Information session in June
- Children’s visits to Reception Class in the Summer Term
- Visits to nurseries by key staff
At St Thomas More RC Primary School we have a flexible approach and additional visit opportunities or multi-agency meetings can be organised if required.
Between years
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. Towards the end of the Summer term we have a ‘move up day’ where all children spend the day with the teacher, classroom and peer group they will have in the next academic year. Additionally – ‘Meet the Teacher’ sessions are scheduled early in the Autumn term, so parents can meet their child’s new teacher on an informal basis.
Secondary
We work in partnership with our feeder secondary schools to provide an enhanced level of transition for those who we feel would benefit from this. St Leonard’s Comprehensive School employs a pupil transition worker who liaises closely with Year 6 staff and the parents and pupils within this year group. We ensure that all pupils’ needs are met to ensure a smooth transition. 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.
The period of transition depends on the individual needs of the pupil. 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 particularly keen to involve parents/carers as much as possible in their child’s transition to secondary school. School staff will take opportunities to work alongside parents/carers to visit secondary schools in advance of secondary placement applications being submitted to the Local Authority.
This ensures parents/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.
Children with SEND are given an extensive level of support before they leave for a new school. Their teacher and SENCo will discuss with secondary colleagues how many transition visits can be arranged over and above those offered to children without SEND (if these are deemed appropriate and/or necessary). These additional visits to the new school will be carried out with the child and secondary school staff in the summer term or sooner if necessary. This ensures that bridges are built between schools, key information shared between staff and the child is given the opportunity to settle into a new routine with the support of a familiar adult.
We recognize that transitions can be difficult for a child with SEND and take steps to ensure that any transition is as smooth as possible.
If you would like to discuss your SEND requirements in detail please contact the school to arrange an appointment.
