Introduction

Leaving school and moving to the next stage of life is a big step for your young person, it is the start of their journey into adulthood.

This transition needs careful planning, which should start a few years before.

It’s important that your young person is at the centre of the planning, so they feel in control and supported to make their own choices.

What you can do as a parent or carer

You, along with school staff and other professionals, can all help support your young person – but they should be involved in every step. It’s important to talk to them about their plans for life after school. Here are some top tips:

• Start planning early

  Talk to your young person’s school about transition planning. Schools provide careers education from year 7 and should begin preparing for life after school from year 9 onwards. If your young person has an education, health and care plan (EHCP), it will include transition planning.

• Know what options are available

  This is an exciting time for your young person, but it can also feel overwhelming with all the different education and job opportunities. Help them to explore what options are available. Start by looking at these sections with your young person:

  • Further and higher education - education options for school leavers including college, apprenticeships, supported internships, and volunteering.
  • Finding work - information about joining the workplace and getting support with additional needs.
• Encourage independence

  Your young person may need to learn skills for independent living, such as managing money, travelling alone, or preparing meals. You can help by encouraging activities such as budgeting, cooking or using public transport. For more information, check out these sections:

  • Becoming independent - this includes getting help with life skills, managing money and finding somewhere to live.
  • Finding your way around - find out about travel training, support while using public transport, and where to find public facilities.
• Speak to professionals

  Make sure you know about the support available through health, education, and social services. SENDIASS can guide you and your young person through this process.