Preparing for adulthood: educational psychologists’ reflections on using the personal skills profile

ABSTRACT This study sought to establish educational psychologists’ (EPs) views on their experiences of using a personal skills profile (PSP), created to support post-16 transition. Two focus groups were held with EPs working in local authorities in the UK. Discussions focused on participants’ experiences of using the PSP with young people (YP), its value, and how it could be developed further. Audio recordings were transcribed, anonymised and thematically analysed. Findings indicated that EPs found that the PSP elicited useful information to support discussions around preparation for adulthood. Key themes relate to the ease of use by EPs and effectiveness and efficiency in regard to information gathering. The tool was deemed to be accessible to YP. Findings are discussed with specific focus on the EP role in relation to supporting preparation for adulthood as outlined in the Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Code of Practice (SEND CoP). Future directions for research are explored.