When support ends: The challenges for school leavers with SEND

Emma Sanderson, Managing Director of Options Autism, highlights the challenges faced by school leavers with SEND as they transition to adulthood.

When students with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) move out of structured education, typically at the ages of 16, 19 or in their early twenties, they can find themselves set adrift into adulthood, without the safety net they previously relied on in school. At this critical transition, information can become ‘confused’ between councils, health authorities and education providers involved in SEND service. While local authorities with strong partnerships and forward-thinking approaches have made strides, others lag behind, leaving young people without the preparation or opportunities they deserve. Why should access to support depend on a postcode lottery?

The impact of this abrupt end to support has once again been highlighted in the new Ofsted and Care Quality Commission (CQC) thematic review 2024, which confirms that ‘systemic barriers’ persist for people with SEND, with many falling out of work, employment or training after they leave the school system. Statistics show young people with SEND are significantly less likely to be employed, and on average, earn much lower wages 15 years after completing Key Stage 4. Effective transition planning is critical.

One initiative proving successful is supported internships – structured, work-based programmes designed for 16-to-24-year-olds with EHCPs. These provide ‘positive experiences’ of work for young people less likely to sustain employment after leaving school. However, uptake can be hindered by local authorities prematurely closing EHCPs based on age, without following proper procedures – as always, funding remains a key barrier, with post-16 provision frequently being the first area to face cuts.

So, how can school leaders help address these challenges? Firstly, ensure that annual reviews focus on transitioning to adulthood from the end of KS3. This is not too early!

Help young people with SEND to aspire to a wide range of destinations by providing them with taster opportunities, work experience, mentoring, enterprise education, and access to role models and inspiring speakers. Be creative – support students to apply for employment in ways that will give them an opportunity to shine, for example, using video CVs. The SEND Gatsby Toolkit is a great guide to what good careers provision looks like. 

Educate students and families on their rights to continue education beyond 19, and about maintaining an EHCP. 

By taking proactive steps, schools can help them navigate transitions more effectively, overcome barriers, and achieve fulfilling futures. With the right support and opportunities, young people with SEND can thrive in education, employment, and beyond.

Ultimately, preparing students with SEND for adulthood is about more than ticking boxes on a transition plan. It’s about instilling self-belief, resilience, and ambition. With the right mindset and resources, young people with SEND can move forward with confidence, ready to thrive in education, employment, and life.