Transition

An effective transition program involving key personnel (ie. school transition team, parents /carers and student) will optimise learning for students with diverse learning needs. Transition occurs at the following key stages of a students secondary schooling:

• Primary to Secondary

• Year 10 into Year 11

• Post-school, including further study or to work

Transition during these stages can be a time of challenge, apprehension and excitement for students with diverse learning needs. An effective and comprehensive transition program optimises learning and wellbeing for all students with diverse learning needs.

To maximise the chances of a successful transition to our school, where the student, parent and teachers feel supported and prepared, all key people are encouraged to communicate ideas and share information in open, inclusive and respectful conversations. The students and their needs are central in all our decision making.

Transition relies on:

Communication – We engage with the student’s primary school to ensure that information about the process of transition is shared and discussed with key people.

Continuity – Based on shared information, arrangements are established to enable continuity of learning and growth. This includes relevant adjustments to organisation, curriculum and pedagogy.

Conscious commitment – We have an active transition plan which involves the participation of students, families, teachers and schools. Schools and teachers develop explicit transition arrangements; students have an active voice and role; parents are partners in exploring how transition will occur to ensure the most effective and successful transition from primary to secondary school.

Depending on individual student needs, the transition process at Marist Catholic College North Shore may include:

• Collaboration between the College/former or current school/ parents or caregivers and students.

• Collection of ALL relevant or significant documentation ( including current up to date assessments by medical and/or allied health professionals).

• Transition visits from the Marist Diverse Learning staff to current or former educational facilities.

• Additional transition visits for the family and student to the Marist Campus.

• Additional transition materials for the student ( site maps, key personnel, information about daily routines, lockers, school diaries etc)

• Additional transition meetings with the parents or caregivers and student.

• Collaborative planning meetings with Diverse Learning Advisors from Sydney Catholic Schools.

Sydney Catholic Schools - Post School Pathways program

The Post School Pathways program supports secondary students with complex support needs and their parents/carers on their journey to post school work and training opportunities through a process of student- centered planning. Student-centred planning for students with complex support needs usually commences in Year 10.

The Leader of Learning Post School Pathways engages with school Diverse Learning Coordinators/teachers, students and their parents/carers in the development and implementation of the Individual Post School Plan by ensuring students

• Remain at school to complete their education

• Participate in career development and workplace preparation including work experience

• Commence the journey to their post school destinations while they are at school