New study highlights urgent need for reform in post-19 transitions for young people with SEN in NI

A new mixed-methods study funded by EPIC Futures NI and UKRI has highlighted significant challenges facing young people with special educational needs (SEN) as they transition from full-time school education into further education, training, employment or day-care provision in Northern Ireland. 

The research, led by Stranmillis University College’s Director of Research and Scholarship, Prof. Noel Purdy OBE, examined the range of post-school provisions currently available to young people with SEN, alongside the barriers, gaps and inconsistencies within the existing transition system. 

Drawing on evidence from young people, parents and carers, and professionals working across education and support services, the study found that post-19 transition pathways are often fragmented, unclear and insufficiently coordinated. 

Across all strands of the research, participants described a system that frequently fails to provide continuity, clarity or access to meaningful opportunities, leaving many young people and families struggling to navigate the move into adult life. 

The findings point to an urgent need for transformational change in how post-19 pathways are planned, delivered and evaluated. 

The report, entitled Transform: Exploring Pathways and Barriers for Young People with Disabilities, sets out five key recommendations to support more coherent and equitable transitions, including: 

• the development of a single, live, centralised mapping system of provision 

• legislative reform to introduce a statutory duty beyond age 19 

• increased investment in existing services 

• improved joined-up planning between government departments and agencies and a stronger commitment to listening to the voices of young people themselves. 

Overall, the study calls for a more coordinated and inclusive transition system that genuinely enables young people with SEN to thrive and achieve meaningful outcomes as they move into adult life. 

Download a copy of the report here.