SEND Transition
Effective transition at all stages is essential to ensure that children feel safe within the learning environment. At Hartside Primary Academy we recognise that transitions can be difficult for a child with SEND and take steps to ensure that any transition is as smooth as possible.
How we will support children with SEND when they are moving on to another class or leaving this school:
Transition into Reception:
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. In January 2016 Nursery provision opened on site and some of our children transition smoothly from Nursery to Reception Class gradually over the final Summer Term. Mrs Clarkson, our Nursery teacher, ensures that children make regular visits to Reception Class and are familiar with Reception staff through shared provision, Early Years trips and special events throughout the year.
For the children who attend other Nursery or Pre-School provision, our Reception Class teacher Miss Acaster will visit your child in their current setting. Following this, parents will be invited to visit school for an induction event. Towards the end of the Summer term, your child will be invited, alongside their key worker, to weekly sessions at Hartside Primary Academy. During that time, the staff will get to know you and your child to ensure that the appropriate provision is in place ready for them starting in September. Parents will be given access to Class Dojo, so that they can communicate with the staff and ask any questions. We find that this is a great way to alleviate anxiety around the first day of school.
Transition between classes:
At Hartside Primary Academy we work closely, therefore children become familiar with each member of the team. Transition is treated the same at every juncture and children are given the opportunity to take part in ‘moving up days’, where children spend time with their new class teacher in their new classroom. During the summer term, staff meet to share information and for those children who require provision that is additional to or different from quality first teaching, we 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 or taking home a transition booklet that includes photographs of the staff and the environment. to talk about with Parents and Carers during the Summer holidays. The support provided is tailored to the needs of individual children and will be discussed with parents/carers and the child.
Transition into Key Stage 3:
Once Secondary School places have been allocated, 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. 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.
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 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.
Joining our school at other times:
If your child joins our school during a Key Stage or mid-way through the academic year, systems are in place to aid their transition from their previous school. When you visit our school, Ms Simpson (Headteacher), will give you a tour and your child will have opportunities to see their new classroom and meet their teacher. If your child has SEND, our SENCO will liaise with the SENCO from your child’s previous school to ensure that we have the required information to enable us to support your child fully. It would be beneficial if you could discuss your child’s needs with us and share any information you have when you visit.
If your child leaves Hartside Primary Academy, 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. If you would like to discuss your SEND requirements in detail please contact the school to arrange an appointment with the SENCO Mrs Nicola Clarkson.
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