Transition support
As your child prepares to transition to or from Post-16 (P16) Inscape House School in Cheadle or our Vocational College in Ashton, we understand that identifying the next steps can feel overwhelming and confusing.
We’ve compiled a list of services and support available across local authorities, offering valuable information to assist you and your child as they transition into adulthood.
Below you’ll find an overview of the key steps in preparing for adulthood. It can be used as a checklist to help ensure that all necessary tasks are completed at the right time.
On this page
Our Post-16 provisions
About Post-16 Provision at Inscape House School
Our Post-16 provision supports students to prepare for adulthood through personalised programmes built around their strengths, needs and aspirations.
The curriculum enables students to overcome barriers, achieve meaningful success, and develop the practical, social, communication and independence skills essential for adult life and employment. Learn more about our curriculum here.
About Inscape Vocational College
Based in Ashton, learners at our Vocational College can focus on BTEC vocational qualifications. We specialise in working with young people aged 16 to 19 with Autism Spectrum Conditions (ASC) and Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs.
We offer personalised learning plans to help our learners fulfil their potential and improve their confidence and self-esteem within a nurturing environment. Learn more about the college here.
Learner pathways explained
Students in Post-16 follow pathways specifically designed to equip them with the skills, qualifications, and knowledge needed for their future pathway.
There are 4 distinct learning pathways at Inscape – Champions, Explorers, Adventurers and Pioneers.
Learning programmes are personalised to students and not only support academic progress but also focus on developing the practical, social, communication and independence skills essential for adulthood.
Post-16 learner pathways
Post-16 Adventurers and Pioneers at Inscape Cheadle and Inscape Vocational College follow pathways that develop the skills, qualifications and knowledge needed for their chosen route into adulthood and employment.
The pathway document below is shared with students, parents and carers as part of the review process to clarify future requirements and to support informed decision-making.
By aligning learning with each student’s aspirations, we help them prepare confidently for successful transitions into work, training or further education.
Post-16 Champions and Explorers
Post-16 Students in our Champions and Explorers pathway follow ASDAN’s Towards Independence modules across all sessions, with a strong focus on developing practical independence skills, functional literacy and numeracy, and self-help skills, taught and developed in both classroom and community settings to support real-life application.
Students develop skills in our P16 shop, school café and practice work skills through daily activities, all of which prepares learners for the next step of a work placement. Progress is assessed against EHCP outcomes and using prompt hierarchy and the engagement model, ensuring individual needs are recognised and celebrated.
Learners typically require higher levels of support with communication, independence, and transitions, so activities and resources are carefully adapted to ensure full accessibility to a tailored Post-16 offer.
Preparing for adulthood pathways
Year 1 16+
As part of the Post-16 transition process, students will actively explore and assess different options for the next stage of their journey, whether it be further education, employment, training or a supported pathway. This process will be an individualised approach, ensuring that each student’s unique needs and aspirations are considered. are considered.
Utilise the review process
The Annual Review Process, supported by feedback from students and parents, in conjunction with career guidance and the P16 qualification overview, will help students identify potential academic, vocational and supported pathways. These pathways will be aligned with their interests, qualifications, and long-term goals, promoting independence and the transition to adulthood.
Review EHCP
Post-16 and Independent Vocational Colleges (IVC) will work collaboratively with families and local authorities to ensure that the Education, Health, and Care Plan (EHCP) remains current, accurate, and reflective of each student’s evolving needs. Regular reviews will be conducted to assess the appropriateness of the EHCP and any necessary adjustments. Should any changes occur in a student’s educational placement or circumstances, a revised EHCP may be required to ensure that the plan continues to meet specific needs and specific outcomes.
Career Advice
To further support transitions, students will be referred to a career advisor . The service will offer specialised advice in relation to future pathway choices.
Work experience
Additionally, opportunities for internal and external work experience will be sought through the Inscape Career Team. These real-world experiences will provide students with valuable skills, insights, and confidence in pursuing their chosen career paths.
This comprehensive approach ensures that students with autism are well-prepared for the next stage in their education, employment, or training, empowering them to achieve greater independence and success in adulthood.
Year 2
Review of Educational Placement
Assess whether continuing with Inscape or remaining in education is still the most appropriate option for the student, based on their evolving needs, interests, and aspirations and outcomes as specified in the EHCP.
Education, Health, and Care Plan (EHCP) Review
Determine whether the EHCP remains necessary, and ensure it is up-to-date and accurately reflects the student’s current and future needs.
Exploration of next steps and options
Explore potential colleges, A level routes, employment/training opportunities, including available support for securing and maintaining employment, tailored to the student’s skills and preferences (internships/apprenticeships). Consider supported pathways and pathways to independence through a social care offer or post 19 specialist college.
Career Guidance and Supported Employment Services
Refer the student to career advisors and/or Supported Employment Services for specialised advice, resources, and support in identifying and pursuing suitable career paths.
Review Meetings
Schedule review meetings to discuss the student’s transition plan, ensuring all relevant stakeholders, including the student, family, and professionals, are involved in the planning process.
Options after P16/IVC
Explore options for the student following college, including opportunities for employment, further education, supported pathways and specialist college routes to ensure a smooth transition to the next phase of their journey.
Year 3 Final Year at Inscape (P16 or Vocational College)
Review of Educational and Post-Education Options:
Evaluate whether continuing with education is still the most appropriate option for the student.
Explore alternative pathways such as social care packages, college placements, internships, or apprenticeships based on the student’s goals, needs, and aspirations.
Education, Health, and Care Plan (EHCP) Review
Assess whether the EHCP remains necessary and ensure it accurately reflects the student’s evolving needs, aspirations, and the support required for the next phase of their development.
Transition Review Meeting
Hold a Transition Review meeting during this year to assess the student’s progress, gather feedback from all relevant parties (student, family, education professionals), and identify necessary adjustments to the transition plan.
Exploration of Further Pathways
Consider a wide range of options for the student’s future, including further and higher education, employment, training opportunities, volunteering, and supported living/social care packages. All options will be reviewed to ensure the most appropriate pathway is identified.
Review and Next Steps
A formal review will take place to identify the next steps in the transition process, ensuring the student is on track to meet their goals and that all support needs are addressed.
Referral to Specialist Services
Refer the student to career advisors and/or Supported Employment Services/social care for specialised guidance and support to help identify suitable employment, training or pathway to independence opportunities and to ensure successful integration into adulthood.
Health and wellbeing pathways
Year 1 16+
Review of Health Needs and Support
Conduct a review of the support required to maintain good mental health and overall wellbeing. This will ensure that appropriate services and interventions are in place during the transition period.
Transition Events
Encourage the student to attend transition events, where appropriate, to gather information, explore potential opportunities, and engage with professionals who can support the transition process.
Personal Risk Assessments
Identify any potential challenges or risks that may arise during the transition process. This will help to ensure that appropriate safeguards and interventions are in place to support the student’s safety and wellbeing.
Consideration of Therapies and Support Needs
Consider the need for therapies and any reasonable adjustments that may be required to support the student in their transition to the next stage of education, employment, or independent living. This may include physical, sensory, or emotional support tailored to the student’s needs.
Year 2
Referral to Adult Services
Determine if there is a need for a referral to adult services, including mental health services, to provide appropriate support and care as the student moves into adult life. This may include a review of mental health needs and any necessary ongoing therapies.
Transfer to Adult Health and Social Care Services
If required, plan for a smooth transfer from child-focused health and social care services to adult health and social care services. This ensures that the student receives the necessary support as they become an adult.
Review Support Needs
Review personal risk assessments and any support needs to ensure they are up-to-date and aligned with the student’s transition plan. This includes identifying any new or ongoing risks and ensuring the appropriate support is in place to address them effectively.
Year 3 Final Year at Inscape (P16 or Vocational College)
Health and wellbeing
Where applicable, conduct a review of support for mental health/physical health needs.
Evaluate personal risk assessments, support requirements, and necessary reasonable adjustments required to transition successfully.
Social care and independent living pathways
Year 1 16+
Social Care & Independent Living
- Referral to the Local Authority Community Team for individuals with learning disabilities (if applicable).
- Financial assessment for social care services.
- Exploration of housing options if supported living is requested.
- Consider Personal Assistant (PA) support needs.
Year 2
Social Care & Independent Living
- The transition worker finalises Adult Social Care assessments.
- Explore social care options, which may include progressing with independent living or support services.
- If supported living is requested, ongoing exploration of housing options should be pursued.
- Consider meaningful activities, volunteering, or employment.
Year 3 Final Year at Inscape (P16 or Vocational College)
Social Care & Independent Living
- Continuous review of the social care package, with the potential for a new assessment if social care needs change.
- Refer the young person to alternative support options if they do not meet the criteria for adult social care.
- Ongoing exploration of housing options if supported living is requested.
- Ensure that relevant assessments have been completed to support learner transition to adulthood.
Other things to consider
Year 1 16+
Information provided about the Mental Capacity Act.
Setting out the responsibilities of those involved in decisions on behalf of individuals who lack capacity.
Providing legal safeguards to ensure that decisions are made in the best interests of the person concerned, with respect to their rights and preferences.
Year 2
Benefits check when leaving education at age 18.
When leaving education at the age of 18, individuals may be eligible for various benefits, depending on their circumstances. These benefits are designed to support young people as they transition from education to employment or other pursuits.
Year 3 Final Year at Inscape (P16 or Vocational College)
Benefits check when leaving education at age 19.
When leaving education at the age of 19, individuals may be eligible for various benefits, depending on their personal circumstances.
16-19 Bursary Fund
The 16-19 Bursary Fund is a contribution to school-related costs incurred by students. This bursary is provided to ensure that students who qualify are given a contribution towards some of the costs of study.
Bursaries are based on acceptable behaviour and attendance. Should these fall below our expectations, bursary payments may be withheld or reduced.
Application forms can be downloaded below or collected from the Inscape reception. There are two bursaries available for students to apply for:
Bursary Fund Policy 16-19
Bursary Fund Statement 16-19
Important information from local councils
Bolton Council
Bury Council
Cheshire East Council
Cheshire West and Chester Council
Derbyshire County Council
Halton Borough Council
Knowsley Council
Manchester City Council
Oldham Council
Rochdale Council
Salford City Council
St Helens Borough Council
Stockport Council
Trafford Council
Tameside Council
Warrington Council
Wigan Council
Meet the team
Richard Nancollis
Head of Post-16
Marie Young
Head of Careers
Level 6 – Career Advisor
P-16 – Phase Leader
Leigh Flemming
Inscape Vocational College Co-Ordinator
We’re here to help
If you have any questions about Inscape House School, our team is on hand.
Details of how to contact us are below, or complete our enquiry form and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.
Message us
inscape.admin@togethertrust.org.uk
Call us
0161 283 4750
Visit us
Inscape House School, Schools Hill, Cheadle SK8 1JE