Education for young people with SEND
At 16, you can stay in education or start your career. There isn't a right or wrong answer.
Your education setting choices
There are many education choices once you turn 16. If you're not too sure, speak to your teacher, careers advisor or a family member.
Want to keep learning after school? Sixth form or college could help you:
- learn more about subjects you enjoy
- make new friends
- try new things
- build your confidence
- work towards qualifications
You may be able to:
- stay at your school's sixth form
- go to another school's sixth form
- study at a local college
Find out more about sixth form and college and how to apply.
Want to learn new things, build confidence and prepare for your future?
A specialist college or training provider could help you:
- learn skills for life and work
- meet new people
- build your independence
- gain qualifications
- work towards your goals
There are different ways to learn, including classroom-based learning and work-based activities.
Learn more about specialist colleges and training providers.
Not everyone learns best in a classroom.
Home education lets you learn in a way that works for you.
You can:
- learn at your own pace
- spend more time on things you enjoy
- take breaks when you need them
- learn at home and in the community
- build skills for everyday life
Want to learn something new, gain a qualification or prepare for work?
Adult education could help you:
- build your confidence
- gain recognised qualifications
- improve your English, maths or digital skills
- learn skills for life and work
- work towards your future goals.
You can study online or in a classroom.
If English is not your first language, ESOL courses are available too.
Alternative social care settings can help you build confidence, learn new skills and become more independent.
You can:
- learn everyday life skills
- try new activities and hobbies
- build friendships and social skills
- gain confidence in new situations
- work towards your personal goals
Activities may include:
- cooking
- crafts
- gardening
- sports
- learning skills for everyday life
Everyone's journey is different. Alternative social care settings can help you learn, grow and take part in activities that are important to you.
To access these services, you will need a social care assessment.
University is one of the options you can choose after school or college.
It can be a chance to explore a subject you enjoy, gain a qualification, learn new skills and prepare for your future.
Many students use university to build their confidence, try new experiences and meet people with similar interests.
If you have an education, health and care (EHC) plan, it will end when you go to university. But, support and financial help may still be available.
You may also be interested in
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Transport options
You may be able to get transport help to travel to and from school or college. See what your options are.
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Reasonable adjustments
It's against the law to treat disabled students unfairly. See what reasonable adjustments are.
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Contact us
If you need some extra help, or want to talk to someone contact our SEND Enquiries Hub