Transition planning for children with additional support needs in Scotland

Starting nursery or primary school

For children likely to need additional support, planning should begin early. Current Scottish guidance describes information-gathering and multi-agency planning well before the start date, with statutory duties to seek relevant information by key points before transition.

Primary to secondary

Enhanced planning may begin during P6 for pupils who need it. The authority should gather information, involve the child and family, coordinate agencies where necessary and pass relevant support information to the receiving school in time for the move.

Leaving school

For a young person expected to need support after school, current guidance says the education authority must seek and consider relevant information from appropriate agencies no later than 12 months before the expected school-leaving date, and share relevant information with appropriate agencies no later than six months before leaving, subject to the required consent.

Questions for a transition meeting

1. What support currently works and must continue from day one?
2. Who is the lead contact before and after the move?
3. What information has been shared with the new setting or agency?
4. Does the child need additional visits, visual supports or a phased transition?
5. When will the transition plan be reviewed after the move?