School Transitions, Admissions at The Village School

At The Village School, we plan every transition with families so learners feel prepared, safe and confident from starting school to moving into adulthood.

Admissions to Special Schools in Brent

Admissions to special schools in Brent are coordinated by the Local Authority’s Special Educational Needs (SEN) 0–25 Team (sometimes referred to as SENIDAS). They oversee EHC needs assessments, consult with schools, and manage placements for children and young people with EHC plans. See Brent’s SEN 0–25 Team overview for full responsibilities and contact routes. Learn more about the Brent Local Offer.

SEND Local Offer | Brent Council Special Schools in Brent | Brent Council

How the process works

Referral/assessment via the EHC process (or annual review if already in place).
Local Authority consults suitable schools based on the EHC plan and parental preferences.
School holds an initial assessment meeting/visit and confirms if needs can be met and a place is available.
If agreed, the Local Authority names the school in the EHC plan and a transition plan/start date is arranged with parents and the school.

Our Transition Approach (EYFS–KS5)

We tailor transition to each learner, using person‑centred planning, visual supports, familiarisation visits, and close home–school communication.

EYFS (ages 3–5)

Welcome meeting with parents to review key information, EHCPs and support strategies.
“All About Me” profile and visual transition booklet; classroom and resources prepared.
Stay‑and‑play sessions; gradual start where appropriate.

KS1 (ages 5–7)

Team meeting to agree needs, strengths and strategies (incl. therapy support).
Visual routines, updated risk/medical plans, and phased familiarisation.
Early check‑ins to monitor settling and adjust support.

KS2 (ages 7–11)

Year 5 guidance on secondary options and Preparing for Transfer timeline.
Opportunities to visit potential settings and attend open events.
Amendments to EHCPs (if needed) and curriculum focus on readiness for KS3.

KS3 (ages 11–14)

Structured handover from KS2; updated All About Me profiles and visuals.
Frequent communication on progress; adaptations made swiftly.
Early careers awareness and community learning.

KS4 (ages 14–16) Preparation for Adulthood

From age 14, annual reviews emphasise adulthood outcomes (education, employment, independent living, community participation, health).
Work‑related learning, travel training, and life skills embedded.
Co‑planning with parents, SEN 0–25 team and external agencies.

KS5 (ages 16–19)

Personalised programmes: accreditation, vocational options, community learning.
Pathways to FE, supported internships and employment explored at reviews.
Careers events, mock interviews and employer encounters.

Brent refers to work from age 14 as “Preparation for Adulthood,” coordinated via the SEN 0–25 Team and partners.

Please see Post 19 page for further information.