Transition to Adulthood Coffee Morning- Placements 16+

☕ Coffee Mornings with a Purpose: Exploring What’s Next After 16.

For many young people in specialist education settings, turning 16 can feel like standing at a crossroads, full of questions and uncertainty about what comes next.

That’s why our Transitions to Adulthood team is hosting a series of relaxed, informal coffee mornings, each focused on a different aspect of life after school. These sessions are designed to help parents and carers feel more informed and confident as they support young people through this important transition.

🔍 This session’s focus:

“Placements and Opportunities After 16 – What’s Out There?”

🌟 What Happens After a Specialist Setting?

Leaving a specialist setting at 16+ is a major milestone, not just for the young person, but for the whole family. It often brings a mix of emotions: hope, uncertainty and a need for clear, accessible information.

There are more options out there than many people realise—and we’ll be unpacking them in this session.

We’ll explore the wide range of pathways and opportunities available, including:

🌱 Further Education – such as specialist colleges or supported routes in mainstream Further Education settings

💼 Supported Internships – real work experience with structured support

🤝 Community-Based Day Opportunities – offering social connection, skill-building and engagement

👩‍🔧 Employment, Volunteering & Training – helping young people find purpose and routine

🏡 Independent Living – learning life skills and working toward greater autonomy

We’ll also be sharing real-life stories of young people who’ve made this transition, what worked for them, what they learned, and what others can take away from their journeys.

🧩 Planning Ahead: It’s Never Too Early

One of the key messages we’ll be highlighting is the importance of early planning. Thinking ahead can ease anxiety and help create a more personalised and positive transition. Whether you’re just starting to think about next steps or you’re already deep into the process, this session is a space for learning and sharing.