Support available in post 16 education
Mainstream further education (FE) colleges support students in a similar way to schools. Colleges should not refuse to admit a young person who has special educational needs (SEN) but doesn’t have an education, health and care plan (EHCP).
Many young people with SEN may also be disabled. Under the Equality Act 2010, mainstream FE colleges must do everything they can to remove any barriers to learning for disabled students.
Students with SEN or SEND but without an EHCP should receive SEND support. Colleges provide student support services. There will be a named person responsible for SEND support. The college must make sure that students with SEND know who they can go to for help and support.
Extra help should be detailed in a SEN support plan in a similar way to that done in schools. Progress will be recorded, and the student should be involved in all stages of the process. The plan should be reviewed at least three times a year (usually termly). Colleges should also refer to specialist services for advice where needed.
Support may include:
- Accessible information such as symbol-based materials
- Mentoring
- Assistive technology, specialist tuition or note takers
- One to one and small group learning support
- Access to therapies
- Travel training
Young people who need more help than the college can provide from their designated SEND resources may require an education, health and care (EHC) needs assessment. This may result in their needs and the provision to meet those needs being detailed in an education, health and care plan (EHCP).
Find out more about EHC needs assessment and EHC plans
An EHCP can support a young person up to the age of 25. This recognises that it may take longer for them to achieve their goals in learning and training.
Warwickshire SENDIAS
Warwickshire SEND Information Advice and Support (SENDIAS) service offers confidential, independent, impartial advice and support to parents and carers of children and young people with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). This service is also offered directly to young people who are aged 16 or over. Resources are available free to use from their website and there is an email and call-back service to speak with a trained independent adviser.