The transition from primary to secondary school is an important stage for all students. At Manor High School, we recognise that some students may need additional preparation, reassurance or support as they move into Year 7.
Information from primary schools is an important starting point in helping us understand students’ strengths, needs and any barriers they may experience when joining secondary school. This may include information about learning, communication and interaction, social and emotional development, sensory or physical needs, attendance, medical needs, friendships, confidence, independence or previous support.
Wherever possible, our Assistant Headteacher responsible for transition, SENDCo and/or Deputy SENDCo work with feeder primary schools to gather relevant information before students join Manor High School. This may include discussions with Year 6 teachers, primary SENDCos and other key staff. Where needed, we may also meet students and families as part of the transition process.
The SENDCo is available at transition events held by the school, giving parents and carers the opportunity to ask questions, share information and discuss any concerns relating to their child’s needs before they join Manor High School.
For students with an Education, Health and Care Plan, or for students who may be particularly vulnerable during transition, the SENDCo or Deputy SENDCo may attend Year 6 annual review meetings when invited by the primary school. Where appropriate, additional transition support may be arranged for students who are anxious about the move to secondary school or who may benefit from becoming more familiar with the school environment, routines and key adults.
For some students joining from Leicester City primary schools, the primary school may be able to request additional transition funding where the young person meets the relevant criteria. Where agreed, this funding can help provide additional support in some form during the first term of secondary school. This may support a more carefully planned transition and help the young person settle into their new school environment.
At the start of Year 7, students complete reading and comprehension assessments. This information helps us to identify students who may need additional support with literacy, curriculum access or confidence in learning. This forms part of our wider approach to understanding students’ needs and is considered alongside information from primary schools, parent/carer views, teacher observations and student voice.
As Year 7 progresses, the subject teachers, pastoral staff and support staff will identify any students who may need further support to the SEND team. Concerns may relate to learning, communication, friendships, emotional wellbeing, participation, concentration, organisation, independence or engagement in school life. Where additional needs are identified, we use a graduated approach of Assess, Plan, Do, Review. This helps us to understand the concern, agree appropriate support, review what is working and consider next steps. Parents and carers will be involved where ongoing additional support is being considered, and we value their knowledge of their child.Where appropriate, the school may seek advice from external professionals to support the identification of need or to help plan effective provision. This may include specialist teaching services, educational psychology, health professionals, speech and language services or other relevant agencies, depending on the student’s needs and the criteria for involvement.
Our aim is to support students to make a positive start at Manor High School, build confidence, develop independence and feel increasingly able to access learning and wider school life.
