Transition to secondary school

Moving from primary to secondary. The single biggest change in most children's school life.

What it is

The move from a primary school of one class and one teacher to a secondary of a thousand pupils, a dozen teachers and a timetable.

Where it applies

Every child at the end of year 6, and it is hardest for children with SEND, anxiety, or a summer birthday.

How it works

Standard transition is a visit day and information passing between schools. Enhanced transition — extra visits at quiet times, photographs, meeting the SENCO, a map, a named adult — is available and is arranged on request rather than by default.

For children with an EHCP the plan must name the secondary school by 15 February of year 6.

What you can ask for

Ask for enhanced transition in writing, in the spring term, not in July.

Ask what information transfers and check it actually did. "The SENCO will pass it on" often means a folder read in October.

Ask for a named adult and a safe place for the first half term, and for the arrangement to be reviewed rather than quietly dropped.

Where to get help

The receiving school's SENCO and your primary's year 6 teacher. SENDIASS for free local advice, and IPSEA or Contact nationally.