Transitions
Transition Planning and Post-16 Pathways
At Dorin Park School, we support students and their families in planning for life beyond school. Transition planning begins early and continues through to the final year, ensuring each young person’s needs are met and their next steps are carefully considered.
We are happy to be able to make the following available:
- Transitions Induction (EYFS)
- Transitions Checklist
- Photo book (EYFS)
- Photo book (Primary)
- Photo book (Seniors)
- Preparation for Adulthood Coffee Morning Presentation 25.09.25
Years 9 & 10: Early Planning
Parents and carers will be invited to attend the Annual Review Meeting, where future pathways will be discussed.
Families are encouraged to begin researching potential options, which may include:
- College placements
- Supported internships
- Social care provision
Year 11: Preparing for the Next Step
During the Year 11 Annual Review, a discussion will take place to determine where the pupil’s needs will best be met. This could be at Dorin Park School, a local college, or through a social care package.
Final Review (Leavers in Year 11, 12 or 13)
Parents and carers will be supported to attend open days at local colleges. Information about these colleges is provided below.
Some students may be eligible for support from Young People’s Services. The school will complete the necessary paperwork where appropriate.
Social services may also offer support, including respite care or activities around college days, for eligible students.
Please note: Students in their final year (leavers) typically finish school around three weeks earlier than the rest of the school in the summer term to support a smooth transition.
The final Annual Review will confirm the most appropriate next steps for each student, whether that be college, continued education at Dorin Park School, or a tailored social care package.
Post-16 Pathways
Below are some of the local options available to young people transitioning from Dorin Park School.
This Live Well Cheshire West link gives information and links to local colleges:
https://www.livewell.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/Search?CategoryId=5108&SM=ServiceSearch&SME=True
Petty Pool College
A specialist provider for young adults with learning difficulties, offering a range of vocational courses in a supportive environment.
Cheshire College – South & West
Campuses in Crewe, Chester, and Ellesmere Port. Offers:
- Apprenticeships
- Vocational courses
Coleg Cambria
Located in Wrexham and Northop. Offers:
- Apprenticeships
- Vocational and Life Skills courses
Wirral Met College
Based in Birkenhead. Offers:
- Apprenticeships
- Vocational and Life Skills courses
Live! Cheshire
A local charity offering inclusive clubs and social activities for young people with SEND. Their ‘Moving On’ programme supports individuals aged 16–25 in preparing for adulthood.
Applying to College
Applications should be made directly through the college’s website. The Local Authority will consult with all local colleges that may be able to meet the student’s needs.
Social Care Packages
For students who do not meet the criteria for college, a social care package may be an alternative.
To access this:
- Parents should apply for a transition social worker, who will help identify a bespoke support package.
- Referrals can be made through iART:
- Telephone: 0300 123 7047
Email: [email protected]
- Telephone: 0300 123 7047
Transport
If a college is able to meet the needs of your young person, you may be eligible to apply for transport. Please note: transport is typically only funded to the nearest suitable college.
For anything regarding school transport, please call School Transport on 01244 973637 or 01244 973564 or email [email protected].
This is the link for transport:
Further Information and Support
Visit the Live Well Cheshire West website for up-to-date information on local services and support for young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), including the Local Offer.