I write student summary profiles for Access Request Forms as my day job. And with the increase in children each year that require support, let me tell you it keeps me busy!

Crafting effective summary profiles for students transitioning from preschool to primary school is crucial for ensuring appropriate support. While therapy reports offer valuable insights, observing the child in a preschool setting provides a deeper understanding, enriching the profile.

With parental consent, begin by arranging an observation at the preschool to witness the child's interactions and behaviours firsthand. When scheduling, inquire about optimal times to observe activities like transitions, group sessions, and playtime, aiming for a comprehensive view.

Limit the observation to around an hour. Upon arrival, seek out the educator most familiar with the child. Understand that they may still be attending to other children. Introduce yourself and request that the educator interact with the child as usual. Additionally, inquire about relevant documents, such as risk assessments or healthcare plans.

During the observation, carefully note areas where the child differs from their peers and identify accommodations educators provide to support the child's success. Focus on the sixteen key areas;

• follows simple instructions

• completes a set task

• follow daily routines

• sits and attends group time

• stands and walks independently

• eats and drinks independently

• toilets independently

• enjoys being with other children

• plays with others in a small group

• communicates with others

• expresses needs and wants

• shares with peers

• attends and responds to stories

• draws/writes with a range of tools

• helps with dressing self

• understands simple number concepts

Be attentive to safety concerns, sensory behaviours, and communication patterns, seeking clarification from the educator where needed. Engage with the child to assess expressive and receptive language skills.

Chat with multiple educators to ensure a balanced perspective, mindful of potential biases. Draft the summary profile reflecting the child's challenges, considering it impairment-based and detailing the level of independence in each skill.

Incorporate insights from therapist reports and finalise the summary profile, ensuring accuracy and relevance. If this is your first time creating a summary profile, seek guidance from the Assistant Principal Learning and Support or Learning and Wellbeing Officer.

By putting time and effort into writing these profiles, you are giving the child the best chance to get the support they need and foster the child's smooth transition and overall development, whether that be regarding a School for Specific Purpose, Support Class, Mainstream with Integration Funding, or Early Intervention.

If you would like prompts to assist with questions and what you are looking for, comment below, and I will send you a copy.