Year 6 Transition

We understand that transition between schools and other establishments is sometimes an anxious time for parents/carers and students, especially for students with SEND.

For students coming into Year 7, our transition co-ordinator and the SENDCo , Mrs Kreczak, (Special Needs Co-ordinator) visit primary schools where there are students coming to St John’s in September. These visits start whilst the students are still in Year 6, occasionally we will liaise with schools and parents from Year 5 if the needs of the child require it.

Mrs Kreczak and our transition co-ordinator meet with Year 6 teachers or leaders to gain as much information as possible about these students, including SEN information. They frequently contact primary schools by telephone to gain information and gather data. For students with SEN, the SENCo receives all relevant Year 6 information, including SEN files. Parents/carers of students with SEN in primary schools whose child will be coming to us are always welcome to contact Mrs Kreczak who will discuss your child and their provision on the telephone or arrange a meeting for you (and your child if appropriate) to come in to discuss any issues. She can also visit your child’s primary and discuss matters with you there.

 

All Year 7 students who will be attending our school, are invited in for two transition days in the summer term, when they spend the day in their new tutor group and take part in activities to help them adjust to life at ‘big school’. During these days, they take part in lessons and familiarise themselves with the layout of the school, they also get the chance to sample our delicious menu!

Many students with SEND are invited in for extra, small group transition sessions to introduce them to our culture and expectations, to try to allay any anxieties as much as possible. In addition to this, prior to starting Year 7 in September, there is also a fully staffed and exciting summer school ( usually in weeks 4 and 5 of the holidays) available to all students.

For students with statements of special educational need or Education Health and Care plans as they are now known (EHCPs), the SENDCo will attend Year 6 statement review meetings to begin to understand the needs of these students and plan their transition. For students with high transition needs, the SENDCo will put in place a more personalised transition programme, in conjunction with the primary school, parents/carers and the school welfare team. Parents/carers of students with EHCPs in Year 5 who are considering a placement are very welcome to contact the SENCo at any time to discuss their child’s needs or arrange a meeting or visit.