Transitions
Transitions
Guidelines to support school transitions
The National Council for Special Education (NCSE) has developed guidelines to support parents of children with special educational needs during big changes in their child’s educational journey.
These guidelines can help you guide your child when they are:
– Starting school for the first time
– Moving to a new school setting like a special school
– Preparing for life after school
On this page, you can find links to our booklets.
Guidelines on Starting Primary School
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Starting Primary School
This guide is for parents and guardians. It outlines key steps including:
– Gathering and sharing information such as reports
– Enrolling in a school
– Planning with the school
– Preparing for change
It offers advice, resources, and contacts to support a smooth start to school life.
You can also read our Preparing Young Children for Primary School booklet.
This a practical guide to help parents, and teaching professionals to support young children in preparing for a smooth move from preschool to primary school. It was created by an expert group of therapists.
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Preparing Young Children for Primary School
You can watch our Starting Primary School video when planning and preparing for the big move with your child. It covers the roles of teaching professionals and developing a student support plan.
Read the transcript for the video on starting primary school
Guidelines on Moving from Primary to Post Primary School
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Moving from Primary to Post-Primary School
This booklet is for parents and guardians. It outlines practical steps, supports, and resources to help ensure a smooth and successful move for students and families.
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Transitioning to Post – Primary: Information Video for Parents
The video covers information on the process and planning with the school.
Read the transcript for the video on transitioning to post-primary school-information for parents
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Supporting your child to transition to Post-Primary school
The video covers how to prepare and support your child to adapt to the change of starting post-primary school.
Read the transcript for the video on supporting your child to transition to post-primary school.
Moving between Mainstream and Special Settings
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Changing Schools: Moving between special and mainstream settings
This booklet is for parents and guardians. It outlines key steps including:
– Deciding on the best option for your child
– Enrolling in a new school
– Planning with schools
– Preparing your child for change
Planning for life after School
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Planning for life after School
This booklet guides students with special educational needs and their families as they prepare for life after post-primary school.
It outlines options and pathways such as:
– Further education
– Employment
– Adult services
It includes practical advice and contacts to support you in the move.