Transition from Secondary to Post-School Destinations

In Transition Studies we have been learning how to prepare for life after school. The areas we are covering include:

• Building confidence and self-esteem
• Working in a team and the importance of being a team-player
• Staying organised – how to plan a trip and dress for an interview etc
• Developing skills and qualities
• Thinking about their options and choices
• Understanding their rights and responsibilities
• Learning to be more independent
• Making decisions about the future – looking at different jobs and college courses
• Expressing their views and opinions
• Exploring their hopes and dreams for the future

Learners will get experience and certificates from the Princes Trust, A Saltire Award from the Scottish Government and an achievement award from the Thistle Foundation

During the Senior Phase at Woodlands learners are given the opportunity to visit and experience a range of post-school opportunities, this could include link courses at Edinburgh College and being involved in supported volunteering at Gorgie Farm or a Care Home.  Learners are also supported by ENABLE to attend work placements.  Within our transition classes we also have links with post-school providers, such as Garvald and Tiphereth. Visits to these providers help learners make informed choices relating to a positive destination.

It is important that planning starts early and a proposed leaving date is identified to allow for a leaving pathway of opportunities to be put in place. Parents are invited to discuss what to expect throughout the transition process at annual transition review meetings and also at parents’ evenings where there is often representation by agencies that can support the transition process.

There is also an annual Careers Event at Pilrig Park School to help inform parents, carers and the young people of post school opportunities and the support available.  We attend Employability Events and work in school with ENABLE during the senior phase to develop team work and problem solving.

Once a young person has left school their progress is monitored by Skills Development Scotland and where appropriate Community Care.