Just when you have settled into a primary school, worked out all of the routines and procedures and are beginning to relax a little, it is time to think about the transition to high school!

The same process and considerations apply to a high school placement as they did for primary school.  You are looking for a school that is a good match for your child. The transition to high school can be a period of great change and uncertainty for your family and your young adolescent.  It is important to make decisions early so that you, the primary school staff, the high school staff and your therapy team have time to prepare your child for the changes ahead.   To make this process easier for families, Therapy Focus have created a kit to help plan for the move to high school, it is called Moving On Up.  The program is divided into two parts, one which plans for the move to high school, and the other which includes activity ideas and strategies to help your child develop the skills they will need in the high school setting.  It is available for loan through our library.

Articles and Information

Handling the Transfer to Secondary School

Transition from Primary School to Secondary School - Information Sheet to Download

Including Teenagers with Down Syndrome in Your School

Including Pupils with Down Syndrome - Secondary School - Leaflet Download

Resources

Guidelines for Middle and Secondary Schools

Moving On Up [kit] 

Secondary School Transition Checklist 

Squire, Anne  Guidelines for Supporting Adolescents and Adults with Down Syndrome

Thornley, Judi  Transition to Secondary School : A Guide for Parents

                       Transition to Secondary School : A Guide for Primary Schools

                       Transition to Secondary School : A Guide for Secondary Schools

Links

Down Syndrome Society of South Australia Purchasing Catalogue  www.downssa.asn.au/resources/catalogue.php