At St Paul’s, we understand that moving to a new school, changing classes or preparing for secondary education can be an exciting but sometimes worrying experience, particularly for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

We aim to make transitions as smooth and positive as possible by working closely with children, parents, carers and other professionals.

How do we support children joining St Paul’s?

• We work closely with parents, carers, nurseries, pre-schools and previous schools to understand each child's individual needs.

• We arrange additional visits, meetings or transition activities where appropriate to help children become familiar with their new environment.

• We may provide photographs, visual timetables, social stories or transition booklets to help children understand what to expect.

• The SENCO liaises with relevant professionals to ensure appropriate support and resources are in place before a child starts school.

• Where a child has an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), we work with parents and professionals to plan the provision needed.

How do we support children moving between classes?

• Teachers share information about children's strengths, needs, successful strategies and individual support arrangements.

• Children who may find change difficult can receive additional transition support, such as visits to their new classroom, opportunities to meet their new teacher and visual information about their new routines.

• Individual Support Plans (ISPs) and relevant information are shared with the receiving teacher to ensure continuity of support.

• Parents and carers are involved in planning additional transition arrangements where needed.

How do we support children moving to secondary school or another setting?

• Our SENCO works closely with receiving schools to share relevant information and discuss the support children may need.

• Additional transition visits and activities may be arranged for children who would benefit from extra preparation.

• We may use transition booklets, photographs, social stories and individualised activities to help children feel more confident about their new school.

• We involve children in discussions about their hopes, concerns and what helps them feel safe and supported.

• Parents and carers are kept informed and involved throughout the transition process.

• For children with an EHCP, transition planning is included in the annual review process, with particular attention to preparing for secondary education.

How do we prepare children for the next stage of education and life?

Throughout their time at St Paul’s, we encourage children to develop independence, confidence, communication, social skills and emotional wellbeing.

We aim to equip all children with the skills they need to manage change, build positive relationships and participate successfully in their next stage of education.

How can parents help?

We encourage parents and carers to share any concerns about upcoming transitions with their child's class teacher or the SENCO as early as possible. This allows us to work together to plan appropriate support.

Our aim is for every child to feel confident, prepared and supported as they move through their education and take their next steps.