At Etherley Lane Primary School we understand the importance of transition for all pupils, particularly those with additional needs.
How we support children/young people with SEN starting at our school
Early Years Staff make visits to all feeder Nurseries to meet the children who will be starting our school. They spend time working with the children, observing them in a familiar environment and talking to their key workers. All new children visit the school prior to starting and this is done through a series of transition days. These are timetabled so that children can have an experience of either end of the school day including lunch. Children with SEND and parents/carers meet with the class teacher and have the opportunity to discuss the needs of the child and discuss any relevant reports or work that has been done with the child.
If a child who has SEND transfers to Etherley Lane Primary School, every effort will be made to ensure their transition is as successful as possible. Depending of the needs of the child, this may include careful liaison with the previous school, a multi agency meeting or transition visits for the child. Depending on the needs of the child a more bespoke package for transition maybe offered to ensure a successful transition.
How we support children/young people with SEN moving between classes in our school
Annual transition meetings are held between class teachers. This is an opportunity to discuss previous support given through the year and suggestions for the upcoming year. There is an opportunity for parents/carers to meet with the class teacher to discuss the needs of their child. Staff visit to their new class in their current classrooms so children can familarise themselves with their new teacher before children have the opportunity to visit their new class on a transition day in the summer term.
How we support children/young people with SEN leaving our school
We work closely with the local secondary schools to provide careful support and consistency as part of the transition process. We liaise with the secondary schools and where necessary provide extra visits for some pupils. If a child has a Statement of SEN or and Education Health Care Plan, secondary colleagues are invited to attend the child’s annual review. There is also opportunity for both parents and children to visit their next school and discuss the needs of the child. Any documentation, e.g. support plans, are passed up to the next school that the child will attend.
