We have teamed up with Mumsnet to ask their users :

What helped your SEND child settle into a new school year?

Here's what they had to say:

"Knowing timetables in advance, seeing where tutor rooms are, meeting
teachers, having everything sorted down to the smallest detail."

- Mumsnet User

"Routine is key, knowing their uniform, being shown the classroom and
meeting the teacher, and having the correct school lunch - I have been
making the same school lunch for 3 years not - no deviations."

- Mumsnet User

"For my son is having plenty to of time to meet the new teacher and see the classroom and where he will be sitting. This year we are incredibly lucky that his TA from last year is moving with him and she is amazing and just gets him. I think it’s also the school understanding that child and their needs. We already have planned for extra choose time in September as he adapts to the new classroom and teacher."

- Mumsnet User

In response to this, the Principal at Cambian Whinfell School shares her perspective.

"A great TA really does make such a difference – how wonderful that she is moving up with him and already understands his needs so well! We always prioritise smooth transitions by offering taster days and carefully planned transition activities so young people can become familiar with their new classroom and staff. Extra time for settling in, alongside strong communication and EHCP guidance, helps us make those vital adjustments for each child’s success."

- Paddy Sandham, Principal of Cambian Whinfell School

 "I found that the below helped:

• Using visual aids and timetables to structure the school day.
• Creating quiet spaces where SEN and neurodiverse students can go if they feel overwhelmed.
• Providing key workers who can offer individual support and guidance.
• Offering passes to avoid busy corridors and for early lunch."

- Mumsnet User

"Preparing things like checking their timetable, packing bags and laying out
clothes the night before. In the morning, focus on the one thing they need
to do next as you work your way through the timetable for the first couple of
weeks until their new routine becomes more normal for them."

- Mumsnet User

"An amazing SenCo who truely understands my child, the routine he needs, and the movement breaks to burn off some energy! They group with him with right children for his needs, and work to encourage him everyday. He is with the same children each year due to being in a specialist setting so the start of the year has less challenges due to returning to a familiar environment with the same faces, and same teaching staff. This takes a lot of the uncertainty away."

- Mumsnet User

In response, the Head Teacher at Cambian Beverley School shares her thoughts.

"This is good advice! Our dedicated staff always familiairise themselves with the needs of students and plan for movement breaks within lessons so that being focused for a short time is achievable. We encourage hands on learning too, in line with strengths and weaknesses. Our young people really benefit from knowing staff and our priority is to build relationships so that every child feels safe and can thrive."

- Suzanne Mulligan, Head Teacher at Cambian Beverley School

"We help by making uniform easy to get on and off, no labels, and practice
runs getting it on and off before school. Velcrow shoes and elasticated
waist trousers."

- Mumsnet User