Question to the Department for Education:

To ask the Secretary of State for Education, what guidance her Department provides to schools and colleges on transition to further and higher education for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities.

The government is committed to ensuring neurodivergent young people and those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) have clear, coordinated pathways into education, training and employment. Local authorities have statutory responsibilities to support participation and effective preparation for adulthood.

The department provides statutory guidance through the SEND Code of Practice: 0 to 25 years, which sets expectations for schools, colleges and local authorities to support young people with SEND to prepare for adulthood and transition successfully into further education, higher education, training or employment.

The department’s SEND reforms propose to strengthen this approach by improving transition arrangements between school and college, with planning beginning at least 12 months in advance, and placing a stronger focus on preparation for adult life, including progression to higher education and employment where appropriate. New national SEND and inclusion training for schools and post-16 settings will also help strengthen inclusive practice and staff expertise, helping staff build the skills and confidence to respond effectively to individual needs.