Children face many transitions before reaching adulthood,

• changing schools,
• moving house,
• new siblings,
• new stepparents

These are the times when children have to cope with the challenges of change. We know most children successfully navigate through most of these transitions but a few children do need help so that they can continue to enjoy and achieve in their childhood and adolescence.

Cambridgeshire Children’s Fund is making a significant contribution to the Transitions process:

1. We commissioned a literature review, Children’s Transitions, (see right) of the current evidence to help inform practitioners and managers of best practice, and policy in the area of transition. This review focuses on:

• The move to year 1 of primary school
• Transferring from primary to secondary school
• Moving up the year groups

2. The Transitions DVD and booklet is now available. It can be used by parents, teachers or services working with schools and provides an interactive opportunity for young people to talk about their anxieties and worries of moving from primary to secondary school.   

The DVD can be purchased for £4 by contacting Helen Andrews, Children’s Fund Programme Manager. (contact details on right)

3. Many of Children’s Fund projects are using innovative approaches to prepare and improve children and families experiences of transition.

4. Cambridgeshire Children’s Fund set up the Transitions Network, a forum that gives practitioners and professionals an opportunity to come together to share best practice, learn about each others work, new developments, local issues and research news.

If you would like more information about the Transitions Network then contact Poppy, the Participation Officer - Poppy's contact details are on the Participation page.