What resources are available to support transition planning for students with Autism?

PostedDecember 17, 2025

UpdatedDecember 17, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Lucia Alvarez, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Transitioning from school to adulthood can feel overwhelming, for autistic young people and their families alike. The good news is that the UK now has a growing network of evidence-based resources, toolkits, and frameworks designed to make this journey smoother and more consistent across education, health, and social care.

National guidance and frameworks

According to NICE NG43, transition planning should begin early and be fully person-centred, with families and professionals working together from age 14 onwards.
NICE CG170 further highlights the importance of reviewing education and community goals regularly, ensuring that each plan reflects the young person’s needs and aspirations.

The NHS guidance on changing from child to adult care explains that support typically continues until age 25 for those with an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), and provides clear steps to help families prepare for this transition.

Meanwhile, the NHS All-Age Autism Assessment Pathway Framework (2023) sets out a national structure for integrated care, ensuring young people receive joined-up support through every stage of their development.

Education and SEND support

The Department for Education’s SEND Improvement Plan (2023–2025) strengthens the link between schools, employers, and health professionals by promoting national transition standards, supported internships, and consistent EHCP reviews.
An Ofsted and CQC joint review in 2025 also called for transition goals to be embedded in every EHCP meeting from early adolescence, reducing the “cliff edge” in support at age 18.

Practical toolkits for families and schools

A number of trusted UK organisations offer free, structured resources for planning and skill-building:

Ambitious about Autism – Transition to Employment Toolkit – Guidance for schools, employers, and families supporting post-16 transitions.

BeyondAutism Transition Framework – Videos and visuals to help develop daily living skills and emotional readiness.

National Autistic Society – Transition to Adulthood – Step-by-step advice on leaving school, entering college, or moving into employment.

Together, these resources offer practical, accessible support that helps families and professionals plan transitions with clarity and confidence.

The takeaway

Transition planning doesn’t need to be a stressful process. When families, educators, and health professionals use evidence-based frameworks, like those from NICE, NHS, and national autism charities, young people gain the best possible start in adult life.

With the right preparation and the right tools, every autistic young person can move forward with confidence, continuity, and hope for a more independent future.

Lucia Alvarez, MSc

Author

Lucia Alvarez is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and extensive experience providing evidence-based therapy and psychological assessment to children, adolescents, and adults. Skilled in CBT, DBT, and other therapeutic interventions, she has worked in hospital, community, and residential care settings. Her expertise includes grief counseling, anxiety management, and resilience-building, with a strong focus on creating safe, supportive environments to improve mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.