Preparing to start reception class at primary school - children with SEND

Starting primary school can be one of the biggest transitions in a child’s life. As a parent you will want to support your child in any way you can. Most parents worry about how their child will manage school. This can be especially true for parents of children with SEND.

The NCSE (National Council for Special Education) has useful information for parents about starting school.

Find out more: NCSE - Starting School Guidelines for Parents/Guardians of Children with Special Educational Needs

Most children will already be attending a nursery, playgroup or other early years setting. These settings will have a keyworker and SENCO (Special Educational Needs Coordinator) who will help with the transition to school by providing them with written information about your child’s needs, abilities and progress to date.

The Early Support teacher and Area SENCO work with children aged 0 - 5 years old who have special educational needs and with the child's family and nursery/education setting.

The team advise and support parents/carers, and provide specialist teaching and interventions to help development.

They also support some children with SEND making the transition to primary school

Find out more: Area Special Education Needs Coordinators 0-5 years

If you are worried about your child’s learning or development you can ask to speak to the class teacher or the school SENCO.

Your GP, early years practitioner or other education, health or social care professionals may also be able to help.