Education and career planning
Planning for life after school is an important part of preparing for adulthood. There are many possible pathways depending on a young person’s interests, strengths and support needs.
Common post-16 options include:
- sixth form education
- further education college courses
- apprenticeships or vocational training
- supported internships
- specialist education settings
- entry-level employment
Choosing the right pathway often involves considering:
- the young person’s interests and strengths
- preferred learning style
- sensory needs
- the level of structure or flexibility that suits them best
- available support services
For example, some teenagers thrive in structured, predictable environments, while others prefer more flexible learning formats.
Under the Equality Act 2010, education providers must make reasonable adjustments to ensure disabled students can access learning on an equal basis.
These adjustments may include:
- additional time in exams
- assistive technology
- note-taking support
- mentoring or study skills support
Early planning and communication with education providers can make transitions smoother.
Transition planning and goal setting
Planning ahead can make the transition to adulthood feel more manageable.
Many professionals recommend beginning transition planning between ages 14 and 16.
This process often involves setting goals across several areas, including:
- education or training
- employment
- independent living skills
- social development
Goals can be organised into:
Short-term goals
- managing a daily routine independently
- completing household tasks
Medium-term goals
- attending appointments with minimal support
- managing school or college schedules
Long-term goals
- part-time employment
- independent living arrangements
Breaking larger goals into smaller steps helps teenagers build confidence and motivation.
