At Yohden Primary School we recognise how important a successful transition is to our pupils with additional needs and this can be difficult for a child with SEND and take steps to ensure that any transition is as smooth as possible.
How we support children/young people with SEN starting at our school
New starters for Reception 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.
- Home Visits
- Nursery Visits
In addition, we offer extra transition sessions for children whom we think would benefit from extra visits to our school. This can be arranged with the SENCO, Mrs J Doyle and the Reception Teacher, Mrs Edwards.
How we support children/young people with SEN moving between classes in our 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 class swap 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.
At Yohden Primary School, we hold curriculum privilege days at the end of each term to reward positive behaviour. This provides an excellent opportunity for children to work with all teachers and Learning support Assistants, so that they become familiar with all adults working in our school.
How we support children/young people with SEN leaving our school
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 children, which helps to build up a familiarity before the children move on to a 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 Yohden 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.
If you would like to discuss your SEND requirements in detail please contact the school to arrange an appointment.
