Transition Planning in SPED Schools
Find out how SPED schools support students and families in planning for life after graduation.
The transition from school to post-school life can be a daunting time for students with special needs and their families. This step often raises questions about what are the next steps and what is available post school.
In every SPED school, Transition Planning takes place during the secondary schooling years prepare students and their families for a smooth transition to post-school. A Transition Planning Coordinator (TPC) and Transition Team oversee and coordinate this important process where the school intensifies partnerships with families to develop a shared vision and a plan for the students’ future when they graduate from school.
Transition Planning in SPED schools takes place over three broad phases during the senior/secondary schooling years, leading up to the point of graduation. The ITP is reviewed every year through a person-centred approach to ensure goals remain relevant and updated.
In the Initiating phase (13 – 14 years old), Transition Planning is introduced to families and they are engaged to share their aspirations and concerns for their child, as well as talk about their child's interests and strengths.
In the Planning phase (15-16 years old), a Family Envisioning Meeting (FEM) takes place for every student and their family from which an Individual Transition Plan (ITP) is developed. The ITP contains the student’s post school goals, i.e. what they would like to do when they leave school.
In the Consolidating phase (17 years old to final schooling years), connections and direct referrals to community pathways and resources are made with and for families to help the student fulfil their post school goals. Meetings with these agencies may be conducted to bridge the transition for families.