Mainstream colleges and sixth forms for young people with SEND

You may be able to attend a sixth form or college of your choice if you meet the entry criteria.

Sixth form

Sixth form is the last 2 years (year 12 and year 13) of secondary education.

When you finish your GCSEs in year 11, you may want to go into sixth form. You can stay in your school or apply to another. The classes tend to be smaller and offer more academic subjects such as maths and English. In sixth form, you can study for qualifications that can get you a job or get you into university.

Your lessons may include written exams, coursework, or skills assessments.

Or why not go to an independent school sixth form.

College

College is a great option if you want to learn skills for a job. You can get these skills by taking a vocational subject.

Examples of vocational subjects are:

• beauty
• carpentry
• motor mechanics.

There is a wide range of foundation and degree courses available in colleges. To gain a qualification, you will take either exams, coursework, or skills assessments.

A local specialist education and training provider may be able to help if you have complex needs. Or you may wish to attend an independent college.

Before you apply

To find out which is the best option for you:

• speak to your careers advisor
• attend an open day or evening
• visit Kent Choices to learn more about what courses are available
• check what transport support is available to get you there and back home

Help available

If you are unsure what help is available, contact the sixth form or college to ask or check their website. Watch these short videos from Charlie, Reese, and Aiden, to learn why they love going to college.

Reese talks about how college has given him independence. Including new skills and making new friends.