Going from one teacher in one room to many teachers, many rooms and a timetable is a big change for any child. For a child with additional needs it can be the hardest step of their school life. Planning early helps.
In 5th and 6th Class
- Visit possible secondary schools, and ask to meet the special education coordinator.
- Ask how they support students like your child, and whether they have a special class if you need one.
- Talk to your child's primary teacher about what information should go to the new school.
The summer before
- Ask for the timetable and a map of the school, and go through them together.
- Visit the school again if you can, when it is quiet.
- Practise the journey to school.
- Use a social story or a photo book about the new school.
The first weeks
- Keep evenings calm and predictable: secondary school days are tiring.
- Check the journal or app with your child each evening.
- Agree one person in the school you can contact.
Where a tutor can help
A tutor can help with organisation, homework routines and new subjects, at your child's pace. On GrindSpot you can find tutors with experience of additional needs.
General information only. Your child's school and the NCSE (ncse.ie) can advise on your child's situation.
