We know for some children and young people, and their families, coping with significant change (or transition), such as moving from one school to another, can be both exciting and challenging. When children and young people move from nursery to school, or primary school to secondary school, or from school to education, training, college or work, these can be big steps to take. Families may need extra support and information to help them through these changes.
Early years settings and schools organise transition activities in June, where possible, for children and for parents/carers. Good communication helps to establish positive relationships between home and school and is key to creating a warm welcome for families. Connect's short film, New to School, shares useful information for new parents and carers about Parent Councils, and the role of Parent Councils in welcoming and involving new families. For Connect Member parent groups, there are lots of additional ideas, resources and a toolkit in MyConnect here. Connect's Welcoming New Families Resource Pack also has lots of hints and tips.
Education Scotland has transitions information for parents and young people. and on supporting learners with additional support needs with their steps post-school here.
You can find many more useful links for supporting this transition or change below.
- Children and young people share their tips for transition here.
- Enquire has information for families with children with additional support needs about Starting Primary School, transitions to secondary school and a recording of a Q and A event, Big Moves - Starting or Changing Schools.
- The Scottish Government's Supporting Children's Learning - Code of Practice: statutory guidance - fourth edition has a section on transitions for children with additional support needs.
- Visit the Scottish Transitions Forum website for research and information.
- Read our Connect report, basedon survey responses from parents and carers about the transition process, for further ideas and responses here.