Post-16 transition
Additional Learning Needs (ALN)
Moving from school to post-16 education and training is a big step for young people.
Welsh Government has made changes to help young people with ALN during this transition.
Further Education (FE)
Most young people with ALN go to FE colleges or training programmes.
There are a wide range of courses and support services available to meet the needs of learners.
Schools and local authorities follow the ALN Code to decide the best path for each learner.
Wherever possible, young people should have access to local post-16 education and training.
Transition planning
Individual Development Plan (IDP)
The college will manage the IDP for most learners.
If a young person has an IDP in school, planning for their next steps starts in Year 9.
Person-centred reviews
Meetings called PCRs help focus on what the young person wants to achieve.
Careers Wales and post-16 providers can join these meetings.
Decision making
The IDP process and the young person’s rights will be explained. This includes their right to agree or disagree with decisions.
It’s important to involve the young person in decisions as much as possible to ensure:
- their thoughts and feelings are considered
- they get the right support for a smooth transition to post-16 education and training
If a young person cannot make decisions about their IDP, parents and carers can act on their behalf.
Further support
You can find help and support for planning your child's transition at:
- ALN Pathfinder - help to plan next steps
- Study Support - ALN support from NPTC Group of Colleges
- Snap Cymru - free transition information, advice and support
