How we support children/young people with SEN starting at our school
In the summer term before children start in Reception, we organise transition visits for all children to help familiarise them with their new environment and the staff. This involves the Reception Class teacher visiting the children in their nursery settings before they join us for two half day visits. Children with SEND may require additional support when moving from their nursery and we work with staff at the nursery to ensure this is as supportive to parents and seamless for the child as possible. In addition, we ensure that staff from both our school and from the nurseries meet so they can share records and key information about the child’s needs, use of equipment, strategies for teaching, agencies involved and so on.
If needed, a similar process tailored to individual needs will take place for children starting our school as an in-year transfer.
How we support children/young people with SEN moving between classes in our school
At the end of each school year, the children all take part in two ‘Move-Up’ afternoons, when they move into their new classroom and meet their new teacher. Children with SEND are supported by a teaching assistant they are familiar with during this process and if appropriate to the child’s needs, this assistant will move with them. Parents are able to meet their child’s new class teacher.
How we support children/young people with SEN leaving our school
At the end of Year 6, we work in partnership with our feeder secondary school, St Bede’s Catholic School and Sixth Form College, 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 children, summer school, 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 child. Our secondary school colleagues attend Year 5 and Year 6 Annual Reviews to meet the class teachers, parents and most importantly the child. At these meeting, secondary school provision is discussed and transition support put in place. We have found this particularly useful in easing any worries or concerns parents and children 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.
If you would like to discuss your SEND requirements in detail please contact the school to arrange an appointment.
