Support for the transition of students with disabilities
Transitions are a normal part of everyday life. The transition from school is a big step for all students and can be even more challenging for those who have disabilities.
Lead School Transition Service (LST) was launched in August 2009 with Allenvale designated as the lead school. LST is an advice and guidance service for the eight Christchurch fund holding secondary schools of which our school is one.
The service supports our school to improve the pathway to post school life for students identified as having a disability (ORRS and non ORRS).
The Lead School Transition Service provides:
- Information
- Support for developing partnerships between schools and other services
- Transition planning processes and templates
- Professional Development for school staff and parents/caregivers
- Support and advice
- Critical intervention for identified students and their family/whanau
LST has developed a key resource called the “Transition Toolkit” of which we have two copies. This easy to use kit includes a planning process, supporting documentation and templates and a range of resources, brochures and databases. It will assist careers and transition staff to provide the right information at the right time to the young people and families attending our school. The first step of the transition planning process is to identify a “Lead Professional” for each student who will support them and their family through the transition milestones.
The two most important factors in ensuring a successful transition are to start early and to place the student at the centre of the planning process. By beginning the transition process at Year 10, students have the opportunities and time to explore the options that are available to them and make informed decisions about their future.
LST is providing a number of professional development opportunities for transition staff and workshops for young people and families. They are very keen to develop across school opportunities where families are able to meet young people and families from other schools in Lead School Transition.
Contact This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it if you wish to be added to their database – you will receive a newsletter and will be kept up to date with information that could assist you and your young person through transition.
If you have any queries about transition, please talk to school careers or transition staff.
For further information on LST – please phone Colin Gladstone (Manager) or Sally Thomas on (03 3516742)