Contact
SEND Advisory Team Hertfordshire Development Centre, Floor 2, Robertson House, Six Hills Way, Stevenage, Hertfordshire, SG1 2FQ
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Transition

A Transition Task Group has been set up to provide a strategic overview and direction for issues relating to transition, particularly from Years 6 to 7. The task group currently consists of representatives from the Primary and Secondary School Effectiveness teams, the Assessment Team, MECS and the SEN & Disability Advisory Team.

The role of the group is to develop and promote consistent practice in transition, with the aim of strengthening the progress of all pupils. Developing and promoting good practice for pupils who may be vulnerable is a key aspect of this work.  Good practice has been identified particularly in the continuity of pastoral and practical arrangements, but a focus on the CURRICULUM and LEARNING can sometimes be neglected.

A group of schools, primary and secondary in Hemel Hempstead, has formed a pilot group. Over the last year they have produced action plans to develop aspects of transition with other schools in their communities. There have also been sessions on Cross-phase Standardisation of Writing between primary and secondary colleagues and some SENCos and INCOs (Inclusion co-ordinators) have been involved in this process too. Materials particularly relating to information sharing about the way that pupils learn best have been trialled within this group with the aim of sharing good practice and ideas with a larger number of schools.

There has been a request from the Pilot schools to run a CPD session focussing particularly on pupils who may be vulnerable at points of transition and this is one the Task Group’s next steps. Through provision mapping approaches we will consider how provision can strategically support the achievement of all pupils and also minimise vulnerability and barriers to learning at these times. We have examples of creative practice in this aspect from some of our Extended Schools’ Consortia also and are looking forward to seeing the impact on the pupils’ progress and well-being.

If you are involved in developing any aspects of transition, particularly for pupils who may be vulnerable and would be willing to share your practice, please email Margaret Davies (SEN Advisory Team Leader) on: Margaret-wht.davies@hertscc.gov.uk for a discussion.

Secondary Transfer Guidance

• A visual and interactive set of resources to support the planning and implementation of secondary transfer for pupils with Down's Syndrome and other vulnerable pupils. Includes an interactive CD Rom
• Easily accessible information for school staff, parents, pupils and external professionals. Visual resource. Includes checklist, timeline and visual timetable. All reources can be printed. Video featuring pupils with Down's Syndrome in their mainstream secondary school.
• Useful information on specific learning profile, Checklist includes Attainment section.

Reference CSF CSF 4117 Issue 2 2006

Secondary Transfer Guide Support Pack - £20.00 plus p & P.

Available to order online from:

• www.downs-syndrome.org.uk