At The Academy at St James we recognise how important a successful transition is to our pupils with additional needs.
Reception children are provided with the following opportunities:
- Parent Meetings
- Additional meetings with parents, nursery and appropriate agencies regarding needs
- Visits to Reception class in the Summer Term
- Pupils and Parents invited for Stay and Play sessions
- Pupils are invited to attend Community Picnic in the Summer term
- Additional visits can occur if required
- A graduated start to school which can be adapted to suit their needs
- Additional support based on individual needs.
Transition between each year group is supported so that the children have met with their new teachers and are familiar with the new classroom environment and organisation. Children will spend time working in their new class prior to starting a new academic year.
We work in partnership with our feeder secondary schools to provide an enhanced level of transition for those who we feel would benefit from this. This takes the form of additional visits for pupils as well as visits from Secondary school staff to our school.
The period of transition depends on the individual needs of the pupil. If it is felt appropriate secondary school colleagues will attend Annual Reviews to meet the current class teacher, parents and most importantly the pupil. We have found this strategy particularly useful in easing any worries or concerns parents and pupils may have. We are particularly keen to involve parents/carers as much as possible in their child’s transition into school and into secondary school.
School staff will take opportunities to work alongside parents/carers in advance of primary and secondary placement applications being submitted to the Local Authority. This ensures parents/carers can make the most informed placement decision for their child. When a school has been allocated to the child, parents are fully involved and consulted at all stages of the transition process.
If you would like to discuss your SEND requirements in detail please contact the SENDCO Ruthi Thompson on 01274 777095 or email ruth.thompson@stjames.bdat-academies.org to arrange an appointment.
You may also wish to contact Bradford SEN Service and the Bradford Local Offer team.
