Helping professionals support smooth, timely transitions at key points in education

Key stage transfers refer to the formal move between major stages of a child or young person’s education, such as from Nursery to Reception, Year 2 to Year 3, Year 6 to Year 7, and Year 11 to Post-16 provision.

For children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), these moments require more than just a change of setting - they often involve new routines, unfamiliar environments, and changes in support. That’s why planning and preparation are essential to ensure the move is successful, inclusive, and supportive for the whole family.

Key stage transfers are different from broader transitions. They are statutory points in education where a young person moves to a new phase, such as:

• Early Years to Primary School
  
• Infant School to Junior School
  
• Primary to Secondary School (Year 6 to Year 7)
  
• Secondary to Post-16 education (e.g. college or sixth form)
  

Each of these points requires clear planning, effective communication between settings, and involvement of families to ensure the continuity of support, especially where an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) is in place.

To support successful key stage transfers, professionals should:

• Start planning early - ideally the year before the transfer.
• Involve the child or young person in a meaningful way.
• Work closely with parents and carers to understand needs and expectations.
• Share important information between current and receiving settings (e.g. EHCPs, support plans, pupil profiles).
• Ensure that any EHCP transfers are completed within statutory timescales.
• Arrange visits, transition sessions, or enhanced support for children who may need more time to adjust.
• Liaise with relevant teams, such as the SEND Service, Educational Psychology, or Early Years SEND Team.

Croydon has local guidance and resources to help professionals manage key stage transfers, including:

• EHCP Phase Transfer Guidance (with timelines and templates).
• Person-centred planning tools, such as “All About Me” and transition passports.
• Support from CLSS, Early Years SEND, and Post-16 Transition Coordinators.
• Opportunities for joint planning meetings between settings and services.

You can also access training and advice here.

Early Years Transition Form

Early Years Transition Report Form

Moving to Secondary School Timeline

Croydon Transition Charter and Year 6 Information

Y6 SEND Safeguarding Transition Form

Admission to Secondary Schools 2025-26

My Choices at 16: A Guide to Planning Your Next Steps