Embedded from Day One · Outcomes-Focused · EHCP-Aligned
Preparation for Adulthood
At Wild Minds, preparation for adulthood is not a bolt-on module — it is woven into every placement, every timetable, and every learning experience from the moment a young person joins us.
Independence begins long before adulthood.
Our Four-Pillar Approach
Wild Minds structures preparation for adulthood around four interconnected pillars, reflecting the statutory SEND Code of Practice framework. These pillars are developed progressively across every stage of provision — from Academy through to Post-16 pathways — ensuring that young people leave Wild Minds genuinely better prepared for adult life.
Preparation for adulthood outcomes are included in every individual plan, reviewed termly, and reported to commissioning bodies as part of our standard progress reporting. Where appropriate, these outcomes are aligned directly to the young person's EHCP Section E and F aspirations.
The Four Pillars
Preparation for Adulthood Domains
Independent Living
Building the practical and emotional skills needed to live independently, manage daily routines, and navigate adult life with confidence.
Skills Developed
- ·Daily living skills and self-care routines
- ·Domestic skills — cooking, cleaning, budgeting
- ·Managing appointments and communications
- ·Understanding rights and responsibilities
- ·Safety and risk awareness
- ·Personal organisation and planning
Developed Through
- →Animal Care routines
- →Farm and land-based tasks
- →Cookham Lodge independent living focus
Employment & Employability
Developing the skills, work habits, and qualifications that will support young people to access meaningful employment, training, or supported work.
Skills Developed
- ·Work-readiness and vocational skills
- ·Teamwork and communication
- ·Following instructions and task completion
- ·Accredited qualifications (ASDAN, AQA, NOCN)
- ·Functional literacy and numeracy
- ·Portfolio and CV development
Developed Through
- →Vocational pathways (construction, animal care, land skills)
- →Work experience opportunities
- →Employability skills sessions
Community Inclusion
Supporting young people to participate in their local communities, form connections, and access the services and experiences that enrich adult life.
Skills Developed
- ·Social skills and relationships
- ·Using community services and transport
- ·Participating in activities and groups
- ·Volunteering and contributing
- ·Navigating digital and social environments
- ·Understanding community and civic life
Developed Through
- →Community mentoring sessions
- →Off-site learning and experiences
- →Social Farms & Gardens membership activities
Health & Wellbeing
Supporting young people to understand and manage their physical and mental health, regulate their emotions, and build resilience for adult life.
Skills Developed
- ·Emotional regulation strategies
- ·Understanding mental health and help-seeking
- ·Physical wellbeing and activity
- ·Relationships and personal safety
- ·Understanding medication and health needs
- ·Resilience and coping strategies
Developed Through
- →Therapeutic support sessions
- →Animal-assisted wellbeing activities
- →Human Givens-informed practice
Transition Planning
Progression Routes
Wild Minds actively plans for every young person's next step. Transition planning begins from day one and is reviewed at every stage.
Find out how Wild Minds can support your young person
Talk to our team about preparation for adulthood provision, EHCP alignment, and what a placement at Wild Minds could look like.