SEND Transition

Effective transition at all stages is essential to ensure that children feel safe within the learning environment. At St Francis’, we have systems in place to ensure that transition is as smooth as possible for all of our pupils.

Transition into Year 3

Transition from Year 2 to Year 3 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 including:

• Regular events with Horndale Infants
• Mr Brown (Horndale Headteacher) is invited to events at St Francis’ as a judge
• Summer Term transition sessions (around 8 sessions)
• Regular meetings with the SENCO from Horndale Infants.
• Miss Mason is available to support parents through transition issues as they arise.

Transition between classes

At St Francis’ all staff take responsibility for every child’s wellbeing. Staff regularly talk with children from across the school, in passing and in whole school assemblies. This enables all children to develop good working relationships with all staff. Staff regularly send children to show their achievement to other to support in building this relationship. 

We have a whole school transition day in July where children spend the day with their new class teacher in their new classroom.

Transition into Key Stage Three

Once Secondary School places have been allocated, a Transition Worker works between our cluster of schools throughout the Spring and Summer Terms in Year 6. The transition worker liaises with children and families in order to ensure they are fully prepared for the next stage of their education. All Durham Secondary schools have transition days where your child can meet their new class teacher and their classmates. They will also have opportunities to participate in sample lessons.

As part of our transition package, 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. The SENCO will work closely with families to ensure that the needs of the individual are met to the best of her ability. For example, extra transition visits for both parents and pupils, involvement of SENDIASS (formerly Durham Parent Partnerships) or support around the social or emotional well-being of the pupil.

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, the Head Teacher, Mrs Wilkinson, 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.

Leaving our school

If your child leaves St Francis’, 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.