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. 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 directly with school 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/scenarios to help you prepare for the unknown
• prepare your young person: talk openly about the transfer and address any anxieties. If possible, arrange visits to the new setting to familiarise them with the space and staff
• the Admission School Team in Southend-on-Sea City Council has created a guidance for parent carers (secondary school transition). It includes questions you can ask the school SENCo/teachers, and general application advice where it is recommended to include your teen's needs in the application form.
• understanding the transfer: knowing why the transfer is happening and what kind of new environment to expect can help reduce anxiety. At secondary schools, the designated School Nurse, school counsellors, educational psychologists, pastoral care and/or educational welfare officers can also 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 Team has developed a comprehensive booklet to help young people with the transition into secondary school. You can contact them via Chat Health on 07507 331884. Young people aged 11-19 can text them directly also, on 07520 649895
• YoungMinds transitioning to college offers resources on moving to further education for young people with mental health concerns
• meeting key people: if possible, arrange introductions to teachers, support staff, and potential classmates beforehand. Knowing a familiar adult is present can provide comfort and answer questions
• get a school map and familiarise with key landmarks in hallways and classrooms. It is natural to feel lost and disoriented on your first day at a new setting. Having a map and knowing where things are will help your teen finding their way quickly, saving valuable time. Also, it can significantly reduce anxiety
• research support services: every school and college will have support for special educational needs and disabilities. You can find information on their website. 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 timetable and books, get backpack and school uniform and shoes ready the night before. Familiarise with lunch time and paying for meals. Pratice the way from home to school and the use of transportation
• prepare for different learning styles: 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
• asking for help: knowing it is okay to ask for clarification, support, or breaks when needed
• taking time to adjust: understanding that adapting to a new environment takes time and patience. Embrace changes as positive opportunities for growth and independence
• Celebrating successes: acknowledging achievements, big or small, can help build confidence in the new environment
• Staying 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 transfer process. With careful planning and support, your young person can make a successful transition to their new setting.