Shropshire Council

Preparing for adulthood

Preparation for Adulthood (PFA) is a term used to support the transition from childhood to adulthood for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), and to support them achieve the best outcomes. The four areas of PFA are:

Employment/higher education

From year 8 children and young people will be preparing and finding out more about pathways to employment. Work-based learning is one of the most effective ways for young people to have first-hand experience of work and support their future transition to employment. Preparing for higher education may include applying for disabled students allowance at least six months prior to starting. Find out more from information can be found at from our 'Higher education' page.

Independent living

Exploring what decisions young people would like to make and where they may want to live in the future, local housing options, housing benefits. 

Participating with society

Understanding support for transition, community activities and engagement in local decision making and developing/maintaining friendships. adult social care services.

Supporting good health

Being provided with information about adult health and pathways or support that may be needed from adult social care services or adult health services



Transition to adulthood and completion of further education and training will happen at different stages for young people who may be prepared for employment, higher education, or they may finish their formal education and transition into full adult health or care services who will continue to support their future adulthood needs.

Formal planning for preparing the transition to adulthood should start from year 9 but ideally sooner.  For young people with Education, Health and Care Plans, transition will be person centred and focus on the strengths and aspirations of the child or young person.  

From the end of compulsory school age 16 years, decisions about their future lie directly with the young person rather than their parents. A young person may be supported to make informed decision about their future if they lack capacity to do so.