SEN Transition

Effective transition at all stages is essential to ensure that children feel safe within the learning environment. At Sedgefield Hardwick we have systems in place to ensure that transition is as smooth as possible for all of our pupils.

Transition Into Reception

Transition from Nursery to Reception Class is a big step for both our children and their parents. We aim to support our families through this important stage in a number of ways. Mr John Close (Deputy Head teacher) and Mrs Hannah Roach (Early Years Lead) work closely with the reception class staff in order to ensure that all children are provided with a effective transition process. 

For the children who attend other Nursery or Pre-School provision, parents will be invited to visit school with their children. The parents are also invited to attend the induction evening. During induction parents will meet all the staff and listen to short presentations. They will receive information, guidance and advice relating to school uniform, school meals, school routines, outdoor visits and how best to support their children in the run up to starting school and during their first year.

Transition Between Classes

At Sedgefield Hardwick we work closely with our pupils so they become familiar with each staff team. Transition is treated the same at every juncture and children are given the opportunity to take part in ‘Moving Up Day’ where children spend time with their new class teacher in their new classroom. During the summer term, staff meet to share information and for those children who require provision that is additional to or different from quality first teaching we make additional arrangements to support these children through the transition. This can include spending additional time in their new classroom, visiting their new classroom with their current member of support staff, beginning transition arrangements earlier in the summer term with photographs and videos of their new classroom to take home and talk about with parents and carers during the summer holidays. The support provided can be tailored to the needs of individual children and can be discussed with parents and carers and the child.

Transition Into Key Stage Three

Once secondary school places have been allocated, a Transition Worker works between our cluster of schools throughout the spring and summer terms in Year 6. The transition worker liaises with children and families in order to ensure they are fully prepared for the next stage of their education. All Durham secondary schools have transition days where your child can meet their new class teacher and their classmates. They will also have opportunities to participate in sample lessons. Most of our children transfer to Sedgefield Community College and the transition days take place in July.

As part of our transition package, the SENCO will ensure that all SEND information is passed onto the next school to ensure that they are fully aware of any additional needs your child may have. The SENCO will work closely with families to ensure that the needs of the individual are met to the best of their ability. For example, a meeting can be arranged between the SENCO from the secondary school during the spring or early summer term, as well as extra transition visits for both parents and pupils, involvement of SENDIASS (formerly Durham Parent Partnerships) or support around the social or emotional well-being of your child.

Joining Our School at Other Times

If your child joins our school during a Key Stage or mid-way through the academic year, systems are in place to aid their transition from their previous school. When you visit our school, the Head Teacher, Mr Taylor, will give you a tour and your child will have opportunities to see their new classroom and meet their teacher. If your child has SEND, our SENCO will liaise with the SENCO from your child’s previous school to ensure that we have the required information to enable us to support your child fully. It would be beneficial if you could discuss your child’s needs with us and share any information you have when you visit.

Leaving Our School

If your child leaves Sedgefield Hardwick School the SENCO will ensure that all SEND information is passed onto the next school to ensure that they are fully aware of any additional needs your child may have.

If you would like to discuss your SEND requirements in detail please contact the school to arrange an appointment with the SENCO Mr John Close or Mr Taylor the Head teacher.