Helping your child through educational transitions

Starting secondary school or college can be exciting but also daunting. Here are some tips to help you prepare for a smooth transition:

• consider your options: research potential new settings and their SEND provision. Read the settings SEND Information Report - this will be on their website. Look for an environment that aligns with your teen's needs and your hopes for their future. Transition visits can be discussed and planned
• gather information: ask the current setting for detailed reports on your teen's strengths, weaknesses, learning styles, routines, communication needs and any specific equipment they require
• communication is key. Speak to teacher's, form tutor, pastoral care team, office staff, SENCo, or/and head of year. Maintain open communication with teachers and support staff about any ongoing difficulties. Make a list of 'what if' questions to help prepare for the unknown
• prepare your young person: talk openly about the move and any worries they have. If possible, arrange visits to the new setting to familiarise them with the space and staff
• the School Admissions Team has created guiance for parent carers (secondary school transition). It includes questions to ask the school SENCo/teachers, and general application advice where it is recommended to include your teen's needs in the application form
• understanding why they are moving to a new setting and what the new environment will be like can help reduce anxiety. At secondary schools, the designated School Nurse, school counsellors, pastoral care and/or educational welfare officers can help with your teen's emotional wellbeing. At colleges, you may find counselling services and/or mental health teams. They may also offer workshops, seminars and peer support groups
• the School Nursing Service has developed a booklet to help young people with the transition to secondary school. You can contact them via Chat Health on 07507 331884. Young people aged 11 to 19 can text them directly on 07520 649895
• YoungMinds transitioning to college offers resources on moving to further education for young people with mental health concerns
• if possible, arrange introductions to teachers, support staff, and potential classmates beforehand. Knowing a familiar adult is present can be comforting
• get a school map and familiarise your young person with key areas. It is natural to feel lost and disoriented at a new setting. Having a map and knowing where things are will help your teen find their way around and reduce anxiety
• research what kind of support and reasonsable adjustments they offer (note-taking assistance, extended time for tests, a scribe, accessing materials in alternative formats, mobility around campus, early exit pass, toilet pass, homework system and support)
• work on organisation skills and routines. Colour code timetables and books, get bag, school uniform and shoes ready the night before. Familiarise your child with the lunch time routine and paying for meals. Pratice the journey from home to school
• college lectures may be less structured than school lessons. Encourage your young person to explore study techniques that work for them, like mind maps, flashcards, or using a recorder during lectures
• plan for independence (gradually): encourage your teen to practice independent living skills like budgeting, time management, and meal preparation. This will boost their confidence and make adapting to college life easier
• tell your young person that it is okay to ask for clarification, support, or breaks when needed
• understand that adapting to a new environment takes time and patience. Embrace change as a positive opportunity for growth and independence
• celebrate success: acknowledging achievements, big and small, can help build confidence in the new environment
• stay connected: maintaining friendships and hobbies from the previous setting can provide stability

Remember it is important to plan ahead and involve your young person as much as possible in the move to the new setting. With careful planning and support, your young person can make a successful transition to their new setting.