Transitions

The Transitions Group has been running for six years and during this time, we have witnessed pupils moving on to a range of positive destinations ranging from university courses, college courses, supported college courses and other support services, such as Project Search. We also have strong links with Skills Development Scotland and work closely with them to ensure young people move on to an appropriate destination.

"Transitions Group" is delivered at St Machar Academy by Mrs Bonner in small groups of 4-7 participants weekly over the school year.

Mrs Bonner

Content

S1 sessions include:

  • Settling into secondary school

  • Emotions about our new school

  • People who can help us

  • Relationships - focus on making and sustaining friendships

  • Sexual health - puberty and personal hygiene

  • Personal safety

S2 sessions include:

  • Understanding disability and difference

  • What is autism?

  • Social skills - eye contact, personal space

  • Communication skills - what is communication, small talk, starting and ending a conversation, turn taking

  • Sensitive subjects - how to discuss

  • Keeping on topic

S3 sessions include:

  • Emotional control

  • Anger management

  • Anxiety

  • Mindfullness and meditation

  • Sleep

  • Relationships - appropriate and inappropriate behaviour, relationship problems

  • Team work

Aims

The aims of this programme is to support young people who have a diagnosis or are seeking a diagnosis of autism in S1 to S3. Pupils may still access support if this is needed in S4 to S6. This group may als be suitable for young people who have issues with social skills or anxiety.

Criteria

Pupils are identified during the transition from P7 to S1 whoever young people can be added in at any stage in consultation with Targeted Support teachers and Guidance Teachers, dependant on spaces. Young persons or parents looking to refer should discuss suitablility in the first instance with the appropriate Guidance Teacher.

Measured Impact

Impact will be measured by:

  • pupils feel supported appropriately in school

  • pupils will have a trusted adult to approach regarding concerns

  • stall will be able to implement appropriate strategies for young people

  • school will be a positive autism friendly environment