Home to ELC: Policy and Parents

Transitions are a key current policy priority for the Scottish Government which is highlighted throughout Curriculum for Excellence (CfE), the Early Years Framework, Getting it Right for Every Child (GIRFEC) and Realising the Ambition (2020).

“In an ELC setting there are several transitions we expect a child to manage: from home to the setting; person to person; setting to setting; outdoors to indoors and ultimately from ELC to Primary School. It is essential that all of these are handled sensitively, inclusively, and positively.” (Dunlop 2020)

Dumfries and Galloway Council recognise and believe, that positive transitions are significant for children’s personal, social and emotional well-being, cognitive development and achievements. We adopt a rights-based approach to transition, upholding the principles outlined in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (updated March 2022).

The UNCRC sets out a comprehensive framework of rights and protections for children. Every child has the right to be heard, respected, and supported throughout the transition process. Our Transition Policy aims to uphold and to promote these rights ensuring that children’s individual circumstances and prior experiences are considered and respected.

As outlined in Realising the Ambition (2020) all transition should consider the five themes to ensure that they are positive and meaningful.

The five ‘C’s that contribute to a positive transition

Including the voice of the Parent and Carer – What Matters to Me?

What parents/carers told us (ELC-P1)

“The information about lunches and choices was helpful.
Sharing photographs and information during the transition process was helpful, it was a good trigger for conversations about how my child’s day had been.
It was useful to know what my child should bring to ELC/Primary 1 every day.
The transition process helped support my child’s positive relationships with peers and adults.
Visits to the P1 classroom are extremely valuable and gives my child an opportunity to talk about them positively, with us at home.”

“It was helpful to find out about how my child would learn at school, whole class, group teaching and individual support.
A P1 information evening prepares the parents and children well for P1. It is brilliant to have that face-to-face discussion.
An enjoyable transition process helped my child with worries about starting P1.
Visiting the classroom and playground gave us a physical feel of where the children will be based.
A learning evening about the new programme of events and expectations for both pupils and carers was very constructive.
The buddy system is fantastic, and I know my child looks forward to spending time with their buddy.”

Education Services
Updated: August 2023