Support your child as they leave school

So, your child is leaving school. What happens next?

Leaving school is a huge milestone for you and your child. They’ll have gone to school for at least 11 years. It’s a period of change for you both.

Your child may have their future all mapped out, and be itching to leave the classroom behind. Or they may be unsure what lies ahead, and looking to you for guidance.

You have an important role to play in this transition. Whether that's spending time visiting universities, prepping them for their first day at work or sitting down with them to discuss their options for what comes next.

Whatever stage your child is at, we’ve got the support here to help you support them.

Five tips to help your child leave school with confidence

1. Prepare, prepare, prepare. The earlier you start working with your child to plan their future, the better. Applications for college, university and apprenticeships are often done months before school finishes. So it’s a good idea to sit down with your child as early as you can to get a feel for what they want to do.
2. Nurture their spark. Some young people have no idea what they’d like to do after school – does that sound like your child? Spend time with them and listen out for school subjects or hobbies they’re passionate about. Then, look for ways you can help them develop this and perhaps use it to inspire their future career.
3. See what’s out there. There are lots of different routes your child can take. It’s important they get to sample as many things as possible before they make up their mind. Colleges and universities often run open days, masterclasses and taster sessions. Volunteering or work experience also give your child a taste of different careers.
4. Get help from the experts. Your child will have met their school guidance teacher. They’ll know your child and be able to steer them towards careers they’d be well-suited to. Then, did you know about Skills Development Scotland’s careers advisers? Every school has one and they’d love to chat all things careers and courses with your child.
5. Dream big but have a backup plan. There’s no limit to what your child can achieve in their career. But remember, there are several ways to reach where they want to go. Your child may need certain grades to get into the course, job or apprenticeship of their dreams. Work with them to map out other ways into their chosen career, just in case they need to take a different path.

Support for parents and carers of young people with additional support needs

If your child is due to finish school, you may be wondering what comes next? What does their future look like? 

There are charities to support you. These organisations offer support, resources and guidance to parents and carers of all young people in Scotland as they make the transition to young adult life. 

• Arc Scotland 
• Scottish Transitions Forum parent and carer network  
• Compass