To ask the Minister of Education to detail the role that (i) the young person themselves; (ii) parents and carers; and (iii) school leaders have in the transition process for young people with a statement of special educational needs leaving school at 19 years of age.

As the young person is a central figure in the transitions process this is the opportunity for their voice to be heard, and for their perspective to be incorporated into the overall planning. The degree or timing of any young person’s participation in Annual Reviews, transition discussions or transitions plans may be dependent on such aspects of their ability and aptitude. The young person may, where appropriate, participate in accessing visits, sampling or events related to post school programmes.

As stakeholders and advocates for the young person, parents/carers are encouraged to participate and assist in the overall transitions process. Their input and support work towards enabling any post school pathway planning. The opportunity to present their views and in-depth knowledge of the young person is key to the planning process.

School leaders have knowledge of the young person’s educational experience and development which assists the transitions process and post school pathway development. School leaders can also involve other related external and supportive services to aid the planning process. School leaders are responsible for overseeing the development of Transition Plans within the Annual Review of the Statement process. They also assist as or where appropriate in the programme of any sampling or access visits to potential post school pathways.