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Moving from primary school to intermediate and secondary
We aim to support all tamariki | children and rangatahi | young people and their family to be able to go to their local school. Every child has the right to attend their nearest school and be part of their community.
There are many benefits to inclusion, not just for a child with learning support needs, but for all learners.
When to move?
The best time for children to move up to the next school level is with their peers.
Children and young people learn best alongside their same-age peers, in everyday settings like home and school. We support children and their whānau to move up to intermediate and secondary school years alongside their classmates.
Planning ahead
Children with higher learning support needs will have a lead worker from their school. They will know when to be in touch with your child's new school or kura to start preparing.
Your lead worker will support you to talk with your child's new class teachers about their learning support needs and strengths.
We may help the school make changes to their physical environment such as building ramps. As well as working with you, we will also work with teachers to identify any additional support they may need. For example:
- in-class speech and language support
- programmes designed to support children's learning in the classroom, such as the Incredible Years teacher programme or Better Start Literacy
- support from kaitakawaenga
- working with specialist teachers in learning and behaviour.
Even if your child does not receive support directly from a particular service, our team works closely together to share their expertise where it is needed.
If your tamariki has very complex and ongoing support needs, they may qualify for Ongoing Resourcing Scheme (ORS) funding which stays with children throughout their school life. Often children will have this funding from the time they start school. You can still apply partway through your child's school years.
Overview of the Ongoing Resourcing Scheme
Progressing through school and beyond
While your child is at school, their teacher continues to be the lead for their learning support needs. They will work with you and with our team as needed to make sure your child continues to receive the support they need.
You can also contact us directly for more advice and support.
