Moving on from Primary School to Secondary School

Moving from primary to secondary school is a big step for all children particularly those who have additional needs. Preparation for the move should start in year 5 when parents have the opportunity to attend secondary school open days. SENCO’s in primary schools are used to helping families at this point. Parents may find it useful to look at the website of any schools they are considering and look particularly at the SEN reports which should detail the provision available for children with SEND.

For children who have particular needs primary schools should help with a planned transition, which will take into account individual children’s needs. This may include extra visits, transitional meetings, SEN reviews. SENCO’s in primary schools will liase with SENCO’s in receiving secondary schools to ensure that particular pupils needs are known and can be planned for before they start their new school. In addition to this individual work between schools there is an annual opportunity for primary and secondary SENCO’s to meet in order to discuss year 6 children moving up to secondary education.

For children who have EHC plans or statements of educational need during their annual review in year 6 will be discussions about the best secondary school for them to attend. Parents and young people will be part of these discussions.