At Howletch Lane Primary School we recognise that at times of change it is important to ensure that children receive the right amount of both support and encouragement to make these potentially stressful events as non-threatening as possible. Change is difficult for any child, but for children who have special educational needs it can be particularly worrying for both children and parents.
How we support children/young people with SEN starting at our school
We encourage all new children to visit the school prior to starting and this is done through transition days. For children with SEND we would encourage further visits to assist with the acclimatisation of the new surroundings. We would also do more visits at current nurseries.
How we support children/young people with SEN moving between classes in our school
Early Years Foundation Stage to Key Stage One
When leaving the EYFS to go to Key Stage 1 children leave the security of a play based environment in which they have been nurtured and supported in all areas of their development. Some children will find the change of both environment and routines very worrying, and so staff work hard to ensure that children who have identified concerns/needs are supported in the following ways:-
- Planned ‘taster sessions’ in the new setting
- A curriculum/environment which in part mirrors the EYFS to ensure continuity
- Handover meeting between staff in which information will be shared regarding the child’s areas of concern/need.
Key Stage One to Key Stage Two
This follows the same principles as outlined above.
How we support children/young people with SEN leaving our school
When children are preparing to leave the security of Howletch Lane Primary School we recognise that the thought of moving on to secondary school can be very daunting. This can be amplified further for a child with special educational needs. Parents of SEND children in Year 5 will be supported in considering and choosing the best provision for the individual as they approach secondary education.
During the school year a child with an ‘Education and Health Care Plan’ will have an annual review of their special needs and the provision outlined in this. Parents and other professionals will attend the meeting alongside the SENDCo as well as a member of the SEND team from the secondary school which they will be attending. This helps in supporting the transition of the pupil in that all partners are aware of the child’s difficulties and can take note of the elements of provision which have been successful in helping the pupil to make progress.
A transition plan will be created which will often consist of additional visits to the new setting.