Supporting Same School Transitions - Year Group Changes

Moving up a year group within the same school still requires thoughtful preparation for SEN students. While the building may be familiar, changes in routine, teachers, and expectations can create anxiety.

Here are our top tips for a successful transition:

• Ask your child’s school to create a personalised transition books featuring photos of new classrooms, teachers, and daily routines. This transition book can be reviewed regularly during summer holidays.

• Your child’s school may have already arranged a “Meet the Teacher” session with your child’s class and their new teacher. You can also request an informal, play-based session between your child and their new teachers before the new academic year begins. These low-pressure meetings help build rapport and reduce first-day anxiety. These sessions should focus on shared activities your child enjoys rather than academic work.

• Create countdown calendars to help process when the change will happen

• Practice new routines during holidays using role-play

Navigating New School Transitions

Transitioning to a completely new school requires comprehensive planning and support. Your child’s current and new school should be in communication and have discussed the transition planning with you. If you haven’t heard from them, contact the SENDCo to arrange a transition planning meeting.

Here are our top tips for a smooth transition:

• Plan multiple informal visits before starting, allowing your child to explore the environment when it's less overwhelming.

• Ask the new school for a transition book, featuring key staff members and important locations like the classrooms, toilets, library, dining hall, and quiet spaces. This transition book can be reviewed regularly during summer holidays.

• Create countdown calendars to help process when the change will happen

• Practice new routines during holidays using role-play

• Rehearse journey routes and timings

• Ask key questions early:

  • How will the EHCP or SEN support be implemented from day one?

  • What additional support is available during the settling-in period?

  • What happens if adjustments are needed?

  • How will progress be monitored and communicated?

  • How can we maintain open, regular communication about concerns?

  • What happens if the transition doesn't go as planned?