“Quality transitions that are well-prepared and child-centred, managed by
trained staff collaborating with one another, and guided by an appropriate
curriculum, enhance the likelihood that the positive impacts of early
learning and childcare will last through primary school and beyond.”

(OECD, 2017)

Getting transitions right is a critical part of high-quality ELC provision. Transitions may be ‘horizontal’ such as transitioning from free play time to lunch time, from having a nap to getting ready to go home, or may be ‘vertical’ such as transitioning into nursery from being looked after at home to moving up to primary school. All children’s transitions should be carefully managed by staff to ensure children have a good experience of managing change and enjoying new experiences and settings.

Further information and resources to support effective transitions:

Chapter 8: Transitions matter; to me:  Realising the Ambition: Being Me

Scottish Early Childhood and Families Transitions Resources

Effective Transitions for children with SLCN (Glasgow City Council Education Services)

Transition supports for CYP with speech language and communication needs

EY Online Modules: Additional Modules – Transition to Primary School

(download EY Online Modules Map PDF document and find link on the second page)