2 years ago, I was blogging for Teacher Toolkit about successful transitions for SEND pupils, with all the best practice and resources ideas I could muster. Following on from that, here are more pupil transition ideas which can supplement physical visits.

Transition books and leaflets

These can be made for children with particular needs (or all children under these circumstances), and emailed/sent home. This can be shared regularly at home and discussed with the child in a positive way. Including things such as a photographic school tour, positive quotes about school life from other pupils etc.

Secondary schools could produce a leaflet with key information such as maps and details of who to go to for help. Children can refer back when needed.

Virtual tour

We have all harnessed the power of technology and learnt many new skills. Next is video editing! Can you produce a virtual tour of your school with key adults such as the office staff and SLT? Basically, include anyone in it who will be a ‘constant’ and still be doing the same thing next term. Try not to include anyone that may change roles.

Send a project home

Once classes are known, is there an ‘all about me’ project that could be completed at home so that you can get to know the children quicker? You could include sections for likes/dislikes and ways the pupil likes to learn, as well as questions they may have for you. Ask the children to attach a photo so you can learn names before they start. This piece of work could also form your first display! Don’t forget to answer their (appropriate) questions however obscure!

Class teacher information

Similarly, new teachers and LSAs could put together some information about themselves and the classroom with photos of where things are kept, where their nearest toilets are, staff likes and dislikes etc.

Keep communicating and a detailed handover

Gather information from all sources. Make sure a full handover is undertaken with previous school and staff. Phone parents and speak to the child on the phone or via video link to build a relationship with them before they start.

Gradual transition and part time timetable

Once everyone knows what is going on, discuss with parents the possibility of gradual transition and part time timetable if you consider the child will have difficulty settling in for a full day. You can always increase or decrease hours depending how it goes. If you have any children who are reluctant returners then please refer to my previous school avoiders blog post.

Go the extra mile

Parents and children of new pupils will need to know more than ever that you are investing time and effort in getting to know them. I’m not suggesting you over communicate, but once you get to know individual families, you will understand how much transition support they need. Also, don’t assume they will all need a lot of extra support, no doubt some children will be very relaxed about the whole process and won’t bat an eyelid! For those with extra anxiety at home – this post on pupil anxiety may be helpful.

Extra SEND advice

If you have a child coming to your class with a complicated need or EHCP, work with senior leaders and SENCO to help transition and secure the correct support. Get up to speed with what support they received in their previous class and transfer over all the resources. You will need to read their paperwork as well as learn the basics of how to use any assistive technology that they use in class. Tap into the expertise of the LSAs who have worked with them previously as they often have more detailed insights than the teacher! Also refer to the blog post mentioned in the opening paragraph.

Finally….

One of the positives of lockdown for me was improving my relationships with parents and carers through weekly phone calls. I know so much more about their home situations, worries and needs in comparison to before the schools shut. A quick phone call home once the transition has been completed will also reassure parents that it is going well (or let them know that it isn’t).

Good luck with your pupil transitions! If you are trying anything else, please write ideas in the comments for others to view.

Thanks for reading,

Lynn