Aim To assess what is known about the effectiveness of face‐to‐face self‐management programmes designed specifically for adolescents (10–19 years) with a chronic illness. Design A systematic review and synthesis without meta‐analysis (SWiM). Data sources Six international web‐based reference libraries were searched with a date range of 1946 to July 2020. Review method The PRISMA statement and SWiM guideline were used for reporting the methods and results. The PICO format was used to develop a focused clinical question and the eligibility criteria of our review. Quality assessment of the included studies was performed using the Cochrane Effective Practice Organisation of Care criteria. Results Eight studies (four randomized controlled trials and four descriptive designs) met the inclusion criteria and were published between 2003 and 2017. Results of the review: Three studies demonstrated measures of illness control which showed initial improvements in adherence as a result of the interventions but failed to demonstrate sustained adherence over time. Booster sessions were identified as an effective strategy to improve adherence, but were often omitted. Conclusions There is a limited body of evidence on the effectiveness of self‐management programmes specifically developed for adolescents with a chronic illness, an important but under researched area. Future research lies in the development of more rigorous studies that focus on quantitative outcome measures for evaluating the effectiveness of self‐management programmes to guide the development of future programmes. Impact It is crucial for adolescents with a chronic illness to develop independence and the self‐management skills required to effectively manage their chronic condition as they transition to adulthood. On current evidence, in planning future self‐management interventions should include booster sessions. Nurses with additional training and experience have a key role in supporting adolescents with a chronic illness to develop self‐management skills as they assume responsibility for their own healthcare.