What Comes After School?
Exploring Post-School Options for Autistic and ASN School Leavers
The school bell rings. The timetable is set. But for pupils entering their final year — especially those who are autistic or have additional support needs (ASN) — the biggest question isn’t about what class comes next.
It’s about what happens after school ends.
The pressure of “what’s next”
Returning to school after summer always brings a mix of emotions. But for those in their final year, the weight of “what comes next?” starts to build quickly — and for parents and carers, the planning begins in earnest.
For some, college or an apprenticeship is the next natural stage. And for many, these can be brilliant routes to further development and employment. But for others — especially neurodivergent individuals and those with more complex support needs — the mainstream options don’t always fit.
So what do you do if college or apprenticeships aren’t quite right? What if your young person needs more time, more tailored support, and more space to develop practical, social, and independence skills before stepping into the next stage of life?
Knowledge is power — and peace of mind
It’s never too early to start gathering information. Understanding the full range of post-school options available can ease the pressure, empower young people to make informed decisions, and give families the confidence that there is a next stage — one that’s right for them.
Knowing what services are available locally, what kinds of support are required, and how these align with your young person’s needs and interests can make all the difference.
A holistic, community-based alternative
At Edge Group Scotland, our Transitions Programme is a supported day service designed specifically for autistic and ASN school leavers who may not be ready for mainstream college or training environments.
We focus on real-world life skills, practical experience, and confidence-building — delivered through a unique blend of outdoor and water-based activities, teamwork, real-world volunteering opportunities, travel training, and personal development.
“I don’t need a taxi anymore because I can now travel on my own. I get the bus to Edge every day!” — Transitions Client
It’s not school. It’s not college. But it is a meaningful step forward — and for the right young people, it can be exactly what’s needed.
It’s OK if the path looks different
Every young person is different. Every destination will be, too. For neurodivergent individuals, the most important thing is finding an option that supports them to thrive in their own way, at their own pace.
Our aim is never to replace other pathways — but to ensure that families and professionals know there is a broader landscape of post-school options, including services like ours.
“The support has been transformational… Edge has provided hope, confidence, new friendships, and a reason to get up in the morning.” — Parent
Start the conversation now
If your child or the young person you support is entering their final year, now is the time to start exploring what comes next.
You don’t need to have all the answers today. But having the right information, early on, can make the transition far smoother.
To learn more about our Transitions Programme, visit our programme page to explore how we support autistic and ASN school leavers in East Lothian, Edinburgh, and surrounding areas.
If you feel it could be the right fit for a young person in your care, we encourage you to submit a referral.
You’re also warmly invited to attend our next open day on Thursday 24th October — a chance to meet the team, see the programmes in action, and ask any questions in person. The Open Day is free to attend but registration is required, you can find out more and sign up over on our Open Day page.