Preparing for adulthood outcomes in further education
The four preparing for adulthood outcomes in the SEND Code of Practice, how to write good outcomes in EHC plans and support plans, and how colleges deliver them.
Glossary
What is preparing for adulthood (PfA)? SEND outcomes explained
Preparing for adulthood is the SEND code's focus on helping young people with SEND reach employment, independent living, community inclusion and good health.
Preparing for adulthood
Glossary term · 2 sources
Definition
Preparing for adulthood (PfA) is the part of the SEND system concerned with helping young people with special educational needs move towards employment, independent living, participation in society and good health. The SEND code of practice expects planning for it to start early and to continue through post-16 education.
Preparing for adulthood, shortened to PfA, reminds everyone in the system that support for young people with SEND should aim at a good adult life, not just at passing a course.
What are the preparing for adulthood outcomes?
The SEND code of practice has a chapter on preparing for adulthood from the earliest years. It describes the aim as helping young people achieve the best possible outcomes in adult life. These are often grouped under four headings: employment (including higher education, training and paid work), independent living, community inclusion and participation, and good health. The code asks professionals to help young people and families think about these outcomes, and expects EHC plans to include outcomes that help young people towards them.
The phrase PfA is also used by an organisation that delivers a national programme for the Department for Education. Take care to separate the code’s concept from that programme.
How does preparing for adulthood apply in FE and apprenticeships?
At college, PfA shapes study programmes. Learners may follow a personalised programme which includes work experience, travel training, independent living skills or supported internships alongside qualifications. The EHCP’s outcomes should be reflected in the learner’s targets, and annual reviews should ask whether they are being reached. Our guide to preparing for adulthood outcomes offers practical examples.
Transition matters. A good handover from school sets the tone, so see the guide to school to college transition. A person-centred approach helps because the young person’s own aspirations drive the outcomes.
On an apprenticeship, the employment outcome is already in progress. The provider and employer can plan workplace adjustments, check access to Access to Work support, and look ahead to what comes next.
What is a common misconception about preparing for adulthood?
The most common is that it is only about getting a job. The code’s wider view includes where and with whom the young person lives, friendships and relationships, community participation and managing their health. A second is that it only applies to learners with moderate or severe needs. Learners with mild needs also benefit from planning for independence, such as managing deadlines, speaking up for adjustments and self-advocacy. A third is that it begins at 16. The code expects it far earlier.
Where can you find the official source?
The SEND code of practice: 0 to 25 years on gov.uk is the main source, particularly the chapters on preparing for adulthood and on further education. The legal framework is Part 3 of the Children and Families Act 2014. Check the Department for Education for any changes to the code.
Frequently asked questions
When should preparing for adulthood planning begin?
The SEND code of practice expects it to be part of planning from the earliest years and to be a focus of reviews from Year 9 (age 13 to 14), so it is well under way by the time a learner reaches college.
Are PfA outcomes only for learners with EHCPs?
No. The outcomes are relevant to all learners with SEND, and good providers use them in support planning whether or not a young person has an EHCP.
What does PfA mean for an apprentice?
An apprenticeship is itself a route to paid employment. PfA planning for an apprentice with SEND covers workplace adjustments, travel, independence and what happens after the apprenticeship.
Sources and further reading
- SEND code of practice 0 to 25 years (gov.uk)
- Children and Families Act 2014, Part 3 (legislation.gov.uk)
Official guidance changes. Check the source before relying on any detail, and take professional advice for individual cases.
Help shape the pilot
We are working with a small number of England FE colleges and apprenticeship providers first. Tell us about your learner support and we will be in touch.