In recognition of World Down Syndrome Day last week (21 March 2025), Sharon Smith returns to the podcast to discuss how to best support young people with Down’s Syndrome transition into adulthood. 

In the episode, we cover: 

• Supporting students find their voice
• Bridging the gap between education and employment
• And, importantly, supporting parents to ‘let go’

Resources

• World Down Syndrome Day: Transitioning to Adulthood (age 14-25) - Downloadable resource
• If you are teaching pupils who have Down's syndrome check out these resources from the Down's Syndrome Association or free training.
• NDTI - Preparing for Adulthood: Person-centred Planning Tools

About Sharon Smith

Sharon is a PHD student, Education Advisor and mum to a 20-year-old daughter with Down’s syndrome. As a result, she has been engaged in the SEND system for over 15 years as a parent carer, and now works for the Down’s Syndrome Association.

Contact Sharon
Check out here SEND Network profile
Email: sharonsmith@sharonsmith.net

Academy 21 

This episode is sponsored by Academy21, the UK’s leading online, DfE-accredited, alternative provision experts. Working with schools, local authorities and multi-academy trusts, they help students, through live teaching to build confidence, re-engage and progress in their education.

Academy21 works in partnership with schools and other institutions to support students who are struggling with attendance for whatever reason, providing a bridge towards reintegration.

Find out more about Academy21 by heading to their website, academy21.co.uk , or follow them on the SEND Network!

The SEND Network
For more information and resources, access the  Podcast Discussion Room here: https://send-network.co.uk/rooms/the-send-network-podcast

New to the network? Register here: SEND Network | An online community for SEND professionals (send-network.co.uk)