My Next Steps
My Next Steps is Paradigm Project’s flagship programme designed to provide comprehensive support for students during the critical transition from primary to secondary school.
Recognising that this transition is a pivotal time for young people, the programme focuses on emotional, social, and academic preparedness to ensure that all students, particularly those from vulnerable and high-risk groups, are equipped to thrive in their new environments.
By focusing on early intervention, inclusivity, and systemic reform, My Next Steps aims to create lasting change in how educational transitions are approached across the UK.
Targeted Support for Vulnerable Groups
Including Black and minoritised students, students with SEND, SEMH, care-experienced children, and those from low socioeconomic backgrounds.
Reflective Spaces and Creative Learning
Role play, reflective workshops, and creative methods to help students develop essential emotional regulation and peer-building skills.
Community Building
Fostering networks among students, parents, and school staff to provide shared learning and support throughout the transition process.
Resources for Students, Parents and Teachers
Including workbooks, journals, videos, games, and ongoing practical guidance to support the transition from all angles.
Parental and School Engagement
Workshops and resources for parents to better support their children, and CPD training for teachers to equip them with tools for student transitions.
Student Feedback
Outcomes
Key Outcomes of the Programme
- Students feel more confident, prepared, and supported throughout their transition.
- Teachers are empowered with the knowledge and tools to provide trauma-informed, youth-focused support.
- Parents have access to resources and a community network, strengthening their ability to guide their children.
- A long-term positive impact on reducing school exclusions, improving mental health and academic engagement, and fostering community cohesion.
Development
Programme Development
We have been working hard in the background to develop the My Next Steps programme, with significant support from the Violence Reduction Unit’s (VRU) Innovation Fund. This partnership has allowed us to create a digital learning platform that enhances both accessibility and affordability, ensuring that schools across the UK can easily implement our comprehensive transition support offer.
Our digital model supports a wide reach, empowering local authorities to provide schools with high-quality resources that address the unique challenges students face during their transition to secondary school. We believe that every school, regardless of location or financial capacity, should have access to this crucial support. Our focus on developing a scalable, sustainable platform aligns with our broader goal of achieving national reach while driving systemic and policy change to reform transition processes on a larger scale.
By leveraging digital innovation, My Next Steps aims to not only expand into new cities but also advocate for equity in education, ensuring that all students, especially those from vulnerable backgrounds, have the tools they need to succeed during this pivotal stage.
