What Happens After School? Navigating the Next Chapter with Confidence
Leaving school is a big deal. For young people with a disability (and their families) it can feel exciting, daunting and a little overwhelming all at once. The question we hear most is simple: What happens next?
At GGC, we believe every young person deserves the chance to shape their future with confidence, support and possibility. Whether it’s continuing to build life skills, connecting with new social opportunities or exploring supported employment, the journey beyond school should be full of options, not obstacles.
The Transition: More than Just a change in Routine
School often provides structure, friendships, and daily goals. When it ends, there can be a sudden gap. Transitioning from that space into adulthood isn’t just about changing locations—it’s about finding your rhythm in a new environment.
Some young people thrive with a bit of routine. Others want to try something different every day. Some are ready to work. Others want to build confidence before taking that step. Every journey is different, and that’s exactly how we approach things at GGC.
As part of this change, it’s also important to think about how your NDIS plan evolves after school. During school, a young person’s plan is often focused on education and development. But once school ends, the focus typically shifts toward independence, employment, social participation, and building adult life skills. This can mean needing different types of supports and sometimes more of them.
Many families choose to request a plan review at this time to make sure their NDIS funding reflects these new goals. It’s also a good time to reach out to your Support Coordinator or Local Area Coordinator (LAC) to talk through options and get support navigating the process. In some cases, a lack of appropriate funding can become a barrier to meaningful participation, so starting early can make a real difference.
What Families Often Ask Us
We know this next chapter comes with questions, lots of them. Here are some of the most common ones we hear:
“Can we visit before deciding anything?”
Yes! We love welcoming families for tours or chats. There’s no pressure, just come and see what feels right.
“What if my child doesn’t know what they want to do?”
That’s completely okay. Exploring is part of the process. We help build confidence and connection one step at a time.
“Can they try a program before committing?”
Absolutely. Trial sessions are a great way to see what works and what feels like a good fit.
“How do we use our NDIS funding for this?”
We can help you understand how your current plan might align with post-school programs. While we don’t manage plans directly, we’re always happy to talk through how our services fit within common NDIS categories and work alongside your Support Coordinator if you have one.
“How do we use our NDIS funding for this?”
We’re happy to help explain what options might be available and how they could align with your plan.
“What if they’re not ready to work yet?”
Then we meet them where they’re at. There’s no timeline. The goal is growth at a pace that feels safe and empowering.
What Support Might Look Like
Transition support doesn’t have to mean jumping into the deep end. It might mean:
Trying out a life skills program once a week to boost confidence
Joining a creative arts group to build social confidence
Exploring supported employment in a safe, low-pressure environment
Attending community events to stay connected and build networks.
It’s about starting somewhere and having a team beside you every step of the way.
“We Didn’t Know Where to Start”
We hear this a lot from parents and carers. That’s okay. There’s no one-size-fits-all path and you don’t need all the answers right now. The key is connection – to a community, to the right information and to services that genuinely care.
If you or your young person are getting close to the end of their school journey and wondering what the next step might be, you’re not alone. We’re here to talk through options, answer questions (big or small) and help you build a plan that feels right.
Let’s Chat About the Next Chapter
At George Gray Centre, we’re already walking alongside many young people on their post-school journey. Some are working with us. Some are learning new skills. All are growing in their own time, in their own way.
If you’re curious about what life after school could look like, we’re here when you’re ready.