Transition - Leaving School

What is Transition?

Transition is a time of change. Between the ages of 14 and 25 young people usually have to make important decisions about their education, leaving home, getting a job and starting relationships. These decisions and changes can be both exciting and challenging. It can be an anxious time for some families, Young People may be concerned about what opportunities and services they can expect as an adult, and whether their needs will be fully met.

A successful transition planning process will help give a clear understanding of what opportunities are available for young people post school, and after 18. Young people can leave school legally at the end of June in the school year, when they reach the age of 16. From here, they can usually make their own decisions about what they want to do. Some will, however, need support with making plans. The main Post 16 options are:

Staying at school can provide many opportunities and be a positive choice. Some young people are able to stay at school until they are 19. The adviser from Career Wales can give you detailed information about the courses and qualifications on offer locally.
Attending a local college of further education while living at home is often the next step. Colleges can offer a very wide range and level of courses, both academic and work-related, which can be full or part-time. Many courses are designed to prepare young people for adult life by offering a range of vocational taster courses, the chance to gain qualifications and improve skills in Maths, English/Welsh and communication. Some students remain in their local college until the age of 25.
Specialist residential colleges - Nearly all Young People with learning difficulties and/or disabilities can go to their local college. A very small number have needs which their local college cannot meet and, if the learner is aged between 16 and 25, the Welsh Government may pay for them to attend a specialist college, including residential courses, where appropriate. Where no local college is able to meet a Young Persons needs, the Careers Adviser will have information on how to apply for a place at a specialist college and how to get funding.
Higher education will be an option for some young people whose academic ability enables them to access courses on offer. This could be at university, college or distance learning.
Supported Work and Training - A young person can enter the world of work through supported employment or a training programme. There are a number of organisations that can help them find opportunities in real work situations. Many of these programmes can lead to nationally recognised vocational qualifications.
Employment - Only a small proportion of young people go straight into employment from school .If this is the most appropriate option the Careers Wales adviser can help with job-seeking skills.
Day Service opportunities may be the most appropriate option for some Young People. These are usually arranged in places where young people with a learning disability can pursue all sorts of interesting day time activities (often out of the day centre and in the local community). Here, they can make new friends, gain their own independence and become a valued member of the community. Day services are usually provided by local authority social services or voluntary organisations. Services are usually provided by local authority social services or voluntary organisations.

SNAP Cymru has produced the guides below that explain what Transition is about and what to expect. If you have further questions please do contact us.