Preparing for Adulthood for Young People with SEND

Becoming an adult is often an exciting time, but it is not always easy.

As you become a young adult, you will start thinking about what you want to do when you leave school and what support you may need to help you do this. This is called 'preparation for adulthood'.

Preparing for adulthood involves gaining independence through developing life skills such as budgeting, self-care, and communication, and planning for future opportunities in education, employment, and community life. For young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), the term "Preparing for Adulthood (PfA)" refers to a structured support process that begins around age 14, focusing on four key areas: further education and employment, independent living, friends and community, and health, to help them achieve their future aspirations. For Young People with SEND (Preparing for Adulthood - PfA)

• Transition Planning:

  A formal planning process that starts in Year 9 (around age 14) to support the move from childhood to adulthood. 

• Key Pathways:

  The planning is centred on the four main pathways to adulthood: 

  • Education and Employment: Learning and training opportunities, supported internships, and apprenticeships. 

  • Independent Living: Skills for managing a home, budgeting, and accessing supported living options. 

  • Friends, Relationships, and Community: Building social connections and becoming an active part of the community. 

  • Health: Planning for and transitioning to adult health services and maintaining good physical and mental health.