22 JULY 2025
For many young people with SEND or neurodivergent needs, the step into adulthood can feel like a cliff edge, full of decisions, uncertainty, and pressure to “get it right.” But the truth is, there’s no single path. Just a set of next steps, taken one at a time, with the right support. In this article, Donna Dean and David Parks, Talent Managers from our Group's Futures Team, explore the different options young people can take after education.
5 minute read
There is no 'one way' forward
Some young people know exactly what they want, others aren't sure. Some head to college, others try a traineeship, supported internship, or part-time work. Some volunteer, build life skills, or just need time to settle before diving into anything else. All of these are valid. What matters most is movement, not speed. With encouragement, routine, and realistic options, young people can find their feet and build the kind of life that works for them.
What can life after school look like?
Here’s a quick snapshot of the options many young people explore:
- College or further education
Courses with more independence and flexibility than school. Many include:
- Entry-level and foundation learning
- Functional Skills (Maths, English, IT)
- Vocational options (construction, media, catering, etc.)
- Supported learning units for young people with EHCPs
Best for: Young people who thrive in structure, want to build routine, or need extra time to grow confidence before employment.
Traineeships and apprenticeships
Hands-on experience with built-in support. Traineeships often include Maths, English and work placements. Apprenticeships are paid jobs with learning attached.
Best for: Those ready to try working life but need support to get started.
Supported internships
Structured job placements with a job coach. These are unpaid, but designed to transition into paid employment.
Best for: Young people with an EHCP who want to work but need on-the-job guidance.
Life skills and independence training
Offered at supported learning centres:
- Cooking, money management and travel training
- Social interaction and personal care
- Health, wellbeing and emotional regulation
Best for: Those not ready for work yet, but who want to build the foundations to get there eventually.
Volunteering or part-time work
Sometimes a short-term role, local shop placement, or community volunteering gives young people the structure, confidence, and reference they need.
Best for: Building confidence, filling a CV, and trying different work environments.
How parents and carers can support
You don’t have to have all the answers, but your encouragement, structure, and patience go further than you think.
Here are some practical ways to support life after school:
✅ Encourage independence. Let them try things, travel alone, handle money, or make decisions (even small ones).
✅ Break tasks into steps. Help turn big, scary goals into manageable chunks.
✅ Talk through options, not outcomes. College, work, or volunteering, it’s about the journey, not “getting it right” first time.
✅ Use visual schedules and reminders. Especially helpful for autistic or neurodivergent young people.
✅ Celebrate small wins. Every CV sent, every new bus route, every brave step forward counts.
✅ Link in with support. From careers advisors to local SEND teams, charities, and work coaches, you’re not alone.
Need help navigating the next steps?
- National Careers Service – 0800 100 900
- Scope – 0808 800 3333
- Mencap – 0808 808 1111
- National Autistic Society – 0808 800 4104
- Check your local authority’s SEND Local Offer for adult learning centres, supported internships, and more
The bottom line
Leaving school isn’t the end of the story, it’s the start of a new chapter. Whether your child wants to work, train, learn, or take time to figure things out, there is a route forward.
Looking for more support?
Download our Futures Support Pack for more information, advice and guidance.