High School Transition Pack

The Year 6 to 7 Transition Mission: A 6-Week Transition Book

Moving from the "Big Fish" pond of Primary to the "Little Fish" ocean of Secondary is the biggest neurological jump a child will ever make. As an Educational Psychologist with over 10 years of clinical experience, I see the "September Shock" every year. Most transition support focuses on blazers and bus routes; this workbook focuses on regulation, identity, and executive function. Designed for Year 6 teaching staff, SENCOs, and parents, this 20+ page manual provides a structured, neuro-affirming roadmap to move a child from "anxious" to "ready".

🧠 What’s Inside the Toolkit?

This programme is divided into six structured missions that can be delivered in a classroom, in small groups, or at the kitchen table:

• Week 1: Identity & Change – Exploring "Then vs. Now" through Venn diagrams to identify "Anchor Points" that keep a child grounded.
• Week 2: The Executive Brain – Practical mastery of school planners and the "Bag Audit" to reduce morning cognitive load.
• Week 3: Mapping the New World – Social scripts for making friends and "Navigation Challenges" to familiarise them with the new environment.
• Week 4: The Circle of Control – A clinical tool to break the "What If" spiral by separating controllable actions from external worries.
• Week 5: The Worry Sorter – A safe space for "Open Mic" discussions on the hidden concerns Year 6s actually have.
• Week 6: The Launchpad – Completing the Learner Profile, a professional handover document to ensure the new school understands how to support your child’s unique needs.

🛠️ Key Features for Advocacy

• The "Back-Up Plan" Worksheet: Step-by-step scripts for when things go wrong (lost bus pass, forgotten PE kit) to prevent a meltdown before it starts.
• The Learner Profile: A comprehensive, 2-page clinical summary covering sensory needs, communication styles, and specific teacher support strategies.
• Self-Regulation Scales: Weekly "Check-ins" to monitor the child’s neurological battery and validate their feelings without minimisation.

📋 Who is this for?

• Educators: Use this as a whole-class transition curriculum or a targeted intervention for SEND pupils.
• Parents: Use this as a "Summer Bridge" to keep the conversation going over the holidays and build your child’s confidence for Day 1.