Transition from Nursery to Reception Class is a big step for both our children and their parents. We aim to support our families through this important stage in a number of ways.
Mrs McAlinden or Mrs Storey will visit children in their current setting. Following this, parents will be invited to visit school for an induction evening. During induction parents will meet all the staff and listen to short presentations by school staff. All children who are starting Reception in September will be invited to attend ‘Moving Up’ Day in July. They will attend for half a day to meet our staff and explore our Foundation Stage Unit.
How we support children/young people with SEN moving between classes in our school
At East Stanley School we work closely within each milestone so children become familiar with each staff team.
Transition is treated the same at every juncture and children are given the opportunity to take part in ‘Moving Up’ sessions where children spend time with their new class teacher in their new classroom.
During the summer term the SENCO, staff and parents meet to share information and for those children who require provision that is additional to or different from quality first teaching. We may make additional arrangements to support these children through the transition. This can include:
- spending additional time in their new classroom
- visiting their new classroom with their current member of support staff
- beginning transition arrangements earlier in the Summer Term
- photographs of their new classroom to take home and talk about with parents/carers during the Summer holidays.
The support provided is tailored to the needs of individual children and will be discussed with parents and carers and the child.
How we support children/young people with SEN leaving our school
Once Secondary School places have been allocated, a Transition Worker works between our cluster of schools throughout the Spring and Summer Terms in Year 6. The transition worker liaises with children and families in order to ensure they are fully prepared for the next stage of their education.
All Durham Secondary schools have transition days where your child can meet their new class teacher and their classmates. They will also have opportunities to participate in sample lessons.
As part of our transition package, the SENCO will ensure that all SEND information is passed onto the next school to ensure that they are fully aware of any additional needs your child may have. The SENCO will work closely with families to ensure that the needs of the individual are met to the best of her ability. For example, extra transition visits for both parents and pupils, involvement of SENDIASS (formerly Durham Parent Partnerships) or support around the social or emotional well-being of the pupil.
If you would like to discuss your SEND requirements in detail please contact the school to arrange an appointment.