Transition Planning - A Guide for Parents & Carers
What is Transition?
"Transition" is when a young person begins to think about leaving school to go to college, work, training or other activities. At this time, the young person and their family will have to make decisions about their future.
It can be especially complicated for a young person who has Special Educational Needs (SEN). It is important that all those involved with planning for transition are aware of the principles of the Special Educational Needs Code of Practice for Wales 2002.
Regulations state that a transition plan must be prepared for all young people with a statement of SEN during the year 9 annual review. The aim of transition planning is to help the young person prepare for a successful life outside of school.
The SEN Code of Practice says that "The Annual Review in year 9 and any subsequent annual reviews until the young person leaves school must include the drawing up and subsequent review of the transition plan."
The transition plan should draw together information from various people from within and outside of the school who are involved with the young person. There will be a special Annual Review (Transition) in year 9.
Self Advocacy
Some young people can speak for themselves, other young people may be happier speaking to you, their friends or other family members. Quite often, young people find it helpful to speak to someone else who is trained to support them or can speak for them.
This person is sometimes called an "Advocate". In some places, young people can join a self-advocacy group which will help them to feel more confident speaking for themselves. Your local Family Information Service, Social Worker, School and SNAP Cymru can help you to find out more.
Who will be at the transition meeting?
The school will arrange the transition meeting with the young person and you. There are also a number of people who must be invited to attend the meeting. Sometimes a written report from these people is acceptable if they are not able to attend.
- The young person’s parent or carer
- A Careers Wales personal advisor
- Relevant teacher
- SENCO
- Local Authority (LA) representative
- Any person that the LA specifies
- The young person
- LA Educational Psychologist
- Health Service Representative
- Other closely involved professionals
The Transition Plan
Drafting and maintaining the plan is the school’s responsibility. It will then be reviewed regularly, at least annually, and updated as the young person’s views and needs change. School staff and the Careers Wales advisor will work with the young person to develop ideas. Sometimes school will have a dedicated person to help young people when there are big changes in their lives. School staff will always be available to help, and will work with young people and all those involved to make sure everything is planned for when they leave school.
Careers Wales
Making plans can be easy for some young people. Other young people may find it easier to talk about their future with someone who they may not know, but who knows about transition planning. Advisors from Careers Wales help every young person with SEN to get ready for the transition process. The School should ensure that Careers Wales is involved with the transition process.