What is Transition?

Transition means moving from one activity, place, routine or stage to another. In primary school, transitions happen every day. They can be small changes, such as moving from one lesson to the next, stopping a favourite activity, going out to play, returning from lunch or changing classrooms. They can also be bigger changes, such as moving into a new year group, starting a new school or moving to secondary school.

While many children adapt easily, some find transitions challenging. Changes to routines, environments, adults or expectations can cause uncertainty or anxiety, particularly for children with SEND.

Primary schools support transitions by preparing children for change and making routines as predictable as possible. This may include using visual timetables, countdowns, Now and Next boards, social stories and clear explanations of what will happen. Children are given opportunities to visit new classrooms, meet new teachers and become familiar with new routines.

Behind the scenes, teachers meet to share detailed information about each child's strengths, interests, learning needs and successful strategies. Assessment information, support plans, interventions, communication systems, sensory resources, medical information and specialist equipment are passed on to ensure continuity of support. For children with additional needs, schools may arrange extra visits, personalised transition resources and close communication with families.

By carefully planning both the everyday transitions and the larger milestones, schools help children feel safe, supported and confident, enabling them to access learning and settle successfully into new routines.

Below are a range of resources to support our pupils with transitions:

Please note that this page is new, and we are adding resources specifically with transition in mind.  You may find other useful resources within the general SEND and Local offer pages on the Highwood website.

Moving up to secondary school for children with additional needs - Togetherness