SEND preparing for adulthood

Advice and guidance on education, employment, independent living, community participation and health for young people with SEND who are moving into adulthood.

Preparing for adulthood (PfA) is about helping you to plan for life after school or college and supporting you to be happy and healthy.

It will also help you:

  • further your education or develop skills for work
  • learn skills to be independent
  • maintain friendships, relationships and become part of the community
  • develop the knowledge to look after your own health needs

Sometimes young people with SEND need more time and support to be ready for life after school or college. This is ok and you may have people at home or in school or college who are able to help you.  

It would be great if you could start discussing your future with your parents or carers and staff as soon as possible, so that they can help you with your choices. This will give you the best chance of achieving your hopes and aspirations.

Thinking about your future can be an exciting time for some young people but it may also make you anxious and worried. This is understandable and completely normal.

Often many young people don’t know what they want to do in the future, so it helps to follow what you enjoy doing now, such as your favourite hobby or lesson.

You can find out more about preparing for adulthood in our parents and carers section.