Transition from MLD to Mainstream

Chris McCambridge

Chris McCambridge shares how he plans for supporting pupils transitioning streams.

The transition from MLD to mainstream is important for MLD pupils whether they are attending inclusive lessons or fully transitioning to mainstream.
In P6/P7 this is particularly important so that pupils are prepared for moving to another school, whether it is a MLD or mainstream school. They need to develop the tools for dealing with change and a bigger, busier and unfamiliar environment.
Inclusive lessons for all year groups are important for MLD pupils as they provide opportunities to develop socially and emotionally and help all pupils to understand that everyone can contribute in a valuable way within the school.
Many friendships can be made from integrated lessons with children meeting up outside of school.

Identify pupils for transitioning and degree of transitioning
Liaise with teacher, SENCO and parents – manage the expectations
Identify classes and level of differentiation and support required
Select the time of day that best suits the pupil and the teacher so that they can give required attention
Pupils attend classes in small groups and if possible, with a classroom assistant
Using feedback from the pupil, teacher, classroom assistant plan future development
Update parents and SENCO
Try to ensure that all MLD pupils get an opportunity to work with a larger group of children for short periods of time. It helps with their confidence and self-esteem to be able to integrate and work alongside their mainstream peers in compatible curriculum areas.