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Moving from primary school to intermediate and secondary#
We 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 family 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 or learning support team. They will know when to be in touch with your child's new school or kura to start preparing.
Your child's teacher and the school's learning support team will work with you and your child to plan for the move into a new learning environment.
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:
- specialist support in the school or kura which may include a speech-language therapist or psychologist
- support from kaitakawaenga
- working with specialist resource teachers of learning and behaviour (RTLB).
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 child has very complex and ongoing support needs, they may already have Ongoing Resourcing Scheme (ORS) funding which stays with children throughout their school life. You can still apply for ORS partway through your child's school years.
Overview of the Ongoing Resourcing Scheme
Progressing through school and beyond#
While your child is at school or kura, 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.
