Leaving Education or Training

What help should I be offered when I am preparing to leave school/college?

As a young people with SEN you should be supported to make the transition to life beyond school or college, whether or not you have an EHC plan.

As well as preparing you for adulthood, schools and colleges should make sure that you have all the information you need to make the final steps in this transition. This information may include local employers, training and where to go for further advice or support.

 

When will my EHC plan end?

If you’re between 19 and 25 and still have an EHC plan, the local authority has to review it at least once a year. Your plan should include goals that help you finish your education or training and get ready for the next part of your life. Everyone moves forward at their own pace, so even though some people keep their EHC plan until 25, not everyone will need it for that long.

Your EHC plan will end if you don't need it anymore or when you leave education/ training. It is important to note that whilst in education or training you have to show progression over time in order for the local authority to maintain the EHC plan, so you cannot complete the same level courses or training in the next academic year.   

If you begin a further education course (Level 4)  such as an undergraduate degree your EHC plan will be ceased (ended).

 

I have an EHC plan.  What should happen before I leave education and get a job or start higher education?

If you are a young people with an EHC plan and it is known that you will be leaving education to move into employment or higher education, the local authority should use the annual review before your EHC plan is ended (ceased) to agree the following:

• the support required moving forward
• specific steps needed to help you engage with services

As a young person with SEND you might require the following:

• access to health services
• access to social care services
• access to adult learning opportunities

In some cases you may be best supported by universal health services and adult social care and support, alongside learning opportunities in the adult skills sector.

Your transition should be planned with timescales and clear responsibilities and you should know what will happen when your EHC plan ceases.

During this planning process, the local authority must continue to maintain your EHC plan as long as you need it and you remain in education or training.

 

Starting work : work life tools 

This free resource from Charlie Waller Workplace offers guidance to young people on seven key aspects of work. From writing a CV and being interviewed, to disclosing mental health issues and developing your career, it’s packed with helpful tips and advice.

Link: Charlie Waller Workplace tool kit