Preparation for Adulthood

Preparing for adulthood is an important part of every young person’s journey. For learners with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), this transition requires a personalised and carefully planned approach that supports the development of independence, confidence, wellbeing, and future aspirations.
At our provision, Preparation for Adulthood is embedded throughout the curriculum, EHCP outcomes, and wider learning experiences. We work closely with learners, families, and external professionals to ensure that young people are supported to make informed choices about their future and develop the skills needed for adult life.

Our Preparation for Adulthood Pathway Focuses on Four Key Areas: Employment, Training and Further Education

We support learners to explore their interests, strengths, and future career aspirations through:

  • Careers education, advice, and guidance
  • Functional skills development
  • Work experience placements
  • Employability and vocational learning
  • College, training, and higher education pathways
  • Supported internships
  • Community-based learning opportunities

Learners are encouraged to develop workplace expectations, communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and confidence in professional environments.

Independent Living

Developing independence is central to preparing for adulthood. Learners are supported to build practical life skills, including:

  • Travel training and road safety
  • Money management and budgeting
  • Cooking and healthy living
  • Personal care and organisation
  • Decision-making and problem-solving
  • Understanding housing and supported living options where appropriate

We encourage learners to become increasingly independent while recognising and respecting individual needs and levels of support.

Community Inclusion and Relationships

Positive relationships and active participation in the community are essential for wellbeing and independence. Learners are supported to:

  • Build friendships and social confidence
  • Develop communication and interpersonal skills
  • Access community activities and local opportunities
  • Understand healthy relationships and personal safety
  • Participate in enrichment activities and group projects

     

We promote inclusion, self-esteem, and meaningful participation within both the educational setting and the wider community.

Health and Emotional Wellbeing

We support learners to understand and manage their physical, emotional, and mental wellbeing as they move towards adulthood. This includes:

  • Developing emotional regulation and resilience
  • Promoting healthy lifestyles and routines
  • Supporting access to appropriate health services
  • Encouraging self-advocacy and understanding of personal needs
  • Supporting transitions from children to adult health services 

Learners are encouraged to express their views, make choices, and take an active role in planning for their future.

Developing Key Life Skills

Preparation for adulthood is embedded across daily learning and experiences. We focus on helping learners develop:

  • Self-advocacy and confidence
  • Communication and social interaction skills
  • Independence and resilience
  • Organisation and time-management skills
  • Emotional awareness and self-regulation
  • Skills for employment and lifelong learning

Working in Partnership

We recognise that successful transitions require strong collaboration between learners, families, education staff, local authorities, employers, and external agencies. Through annual reviews, transition planning, and personalised support, we ensure that each learner’s aspirations and outcomes remain central to the planning process.