Transitions between early years, school and college
Information to support families when children move from one setting or year group to another.
Starting school, moving up to Year 7, or beginning college can be a big change. These changes are called transitions. Many children and young people benefit from extra planning, support and time to adjust so the experience feels positive.
We’ve put together helpful information to support you and your child as you prepare for these transitions.
Information you can use to talk to your setting, school or college
The West Sussex Tools for Schools website helps teachers and special educational needs co-ordinators (SENCOs) improve transitions for children and young people.
If your child is moving to a new school or setting, take a look at the pages below:
- Early Years Foundation Stage - moving into reception
- transition to secondary school
- moving to a new year group
- transitions throughout the day
You can then speak with your child’s teacher or SENCO about the information. Ask how the school is helping your child have a smooth transition and what you can do at home to support them.
Children and young people who have an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP)
Year 5
The Annual Review in year 5 should look at your child’s move to secondary school. This gives you and the school time to plan and explore the options available.
Year 9
During this review, we talk about your child’s move into post-16 education and start planning for their journey into adulthood.
Further information is available about EHCP annual reviews from Local Offer and annual review factsheets from the SEND Information, Advice and Support (SENDIAS) Service.
Transition to adulthood
Find information about preparing for employment and finding somewhere to live on the Local Offer preparation for adulthood pages.
You can find more information about the transition from Children’s to Adults social care services from the Guide to Lifelong Services - Transition Team.