What happens after special school?

What support is available to young people with SEN once they leave education?

Young people with Special Educational Needs (SEN) face unique challenges and barriers when moving from education to adulthood.

At InFocus, we offer an integrated education and care service for those with visual impairments and other complex needs aged 16-25. Our programs focus on preparing students for life after school. Learn more about what we can offer.

Leaving school

Leaving school can be a big step for anyone, but for young people with SEN, it can feel even more daunting. Many young people choose to continue their education at a college that specialises in supporting those with disabilities. Such colleges offer support services tailored to meet the unique needs of each student.

Support can include:

Education, health and care (EHC) plans

These plans are important for SEN students as they transition from school to further education. An EHC plan is like a roadmap. One that outlines the support and services needed to help students reach their ambitions and live their best lives.

From year 9 onwards, schools will begin to work with students to plan their next steps. This aims to:

Set clear and ambitious goals
Identify a next step that aligns with interests and needs
Research education and training options available
Develop a plan for future steps

Careers guidance

This support helps students explore their interests, skills, and goals to plan for their future careers. Essentially, it’s like having a personal coach. One who helps you navigate the world of work and find a job that suits your abilities and aspirations.

Further education

Further education is a popular option for young people with SEN looking to extend their learning after finishing school.

Though mainstream schools and colleges may be unable to provide full support. Colleges, like InFocus College, can provide tailored support and facilities for students with SEN.

Who is eligible for free tuition?

Young people aged 19-25 with an EHC plan are eligible for free tuition, so long as the course aligns with the outcome of their plan.

Young people over 19 without EHC plans may have to pay tuition fees for the courses they are studying, depending on the type and level. However, those receiving certain benefits may be exempt from these fees. Some courses, such as basic maths, English, employment skills, or a first GCSE or A level course, may be free.

What support is available at InFocus College?

We provide a range of support services to help young people with visual impairments and complex needs transition into adulthood.

Support can include:

Accessible information like Braille
Educational support and tutoring
Access to therapies
Assistance with transitioning into further education or employment
Life skills training, including cooking, cleaning, and budgeting
Support with independent living skills, such as travel
Employment support, including job coaching and supported internships

Our curriculum is designed to teach students useful skills for adult life. This includes areas such as cooking, budgeting, and travel skills. For those with vision impairments, we provide assistive technology training.

Support in preparing for adulthood

We understand that moving from school to adult life can be a little daunting, especially for young people with SEN. Through our services, you can be prepared for the next chapter in your life.

We work closely with students to create a tailored plan that supports their goals and aspirations. Whether it’s helping with job applications, arranging work placements, or connecting individuals with community resources. We are here to help young people with SEN navigate the transition to adulthood with independence.

Transition pathway

Our specialist curriculum includes a Transition Pathway, designed to prepare students for their transition into adulthood.

Some students may require one or two years of additional education to acquire the skills necessary for independent/supported living. In this time they could also obtain further qualifications, or build specific work skills and confidence.

This curriculum is centred around independent living and work skills, available as a full-time or part-time course. Supported internships are also included. Students also have access to residential and day services to help them build future skills.

Employability training

This training builds on the skills gained from work experience as part of a structured work-related program. Training is provided by a team of staff, including individuals living with vision impairment. This to improve:

Planning and problem-solving
Communication
Following instructions
Task management
Time management
Volunteering in charity shops

Work experience

We value the significance of work experience and vocational opportunities for our students. Transforming experiences into each student’s learning journey is crucial for building their skills and confidence.

For the best outcomes, we work closely with each student to identify the most suitable opportunities that match their abilities and interests.

Examples of placements include:

Retail experience in one of our five charity shops
Online trading at our eBay store
Catering and customer service at the InFocus cafe
Gardening and horticulture at one of our two outdoor sites

Supported Internships

Our Supported Internship programme is designed to provide students with the opportunity to gain valuable work experience in a range of sectors.

Young people with SEN may need help finding and maintaining employment. Which is why we work closely with our partners to ensure that each placement is tailored to meet your specific needs.

Support doesn’t end once your placement is finished – it’s just the beginning. We are committed to helping you have the best possible chance of getting into a job or an apprenticeship.

Learn more about our supported internships

Apprenticeships

Apprenticeships have long been considered a valuable pathway for young people. It allows them to gain skills, experience, and qualifications while earning a wage.

These programs offer a unique opportunity to combine study with hands-on training in a real work setting. They are open to over 16s, with or without EHC plans.

Young people with SEN are provided extra funding and support to help them succeed. Employers receive funding for all young people, but the amount is higher for those with an EHC plan. This extra support can help cover any added costs or resources needed.

See the government apprenticeships guide for more information.

Beyond College

Once a student leaves InFocus College, our support doesn’t end there. We continue to offer assistance. Whether that’s through our adult residential care or Adult Day Services like Jigsaw, we’re committed to ensuring that all our students have the support they need to thrive in their adult lives.

Getting a job

Whilst at InFocus, students are prepared for employment through work placements and partnerships with local businesses. This hands-on experience helps students develop valuable job skills and gain confidence in their abilities.

Students are also assisted in key concepts of finding work. This includes support with interviews, CV writing, and job searching.

Housing

Finding suitable housing can be a big step towards independence for young people with SEN. At InFocus College, we know the importance of having a safe and comfortable place to call home.

We work closely with students and their families to explore housing options that meet their specific needs and preferences. This can include help with:

Supported living accommodation
Accessing housing benefits
Independent living arrangements
Connecting with local housing providers

For those who prefer more independent living, our supported housing provides a step towards greater self-support.

It offers a balance of independence and support. Allowing young people to develop living skills and access to assistance when needed.

Higher education such as University

Students may choose to pursue a higher education course at university, at a degree level. Universities are required to make reasonable adjustments for disabled students under the Equality Act 2010. This can include support such as flexible lesson times, study skills support, or access to supportive technology.

Students with greater needs may be eligible for a Disabled Students Allowance to fund specific assistance like note takers, sign language interpreters, or specialised IT equipment.

If a student’s education options are being considered after age 19, they have the right to appeal to a SEND Tribunal if there is a decision to end their EHC plan. The local authority must maintain the plan in its current form until the two-month deadline for appeal has passed, or until a tribunal has determined that the plan should end.

Learn more about InFocus College

If you would like to learn more about the support offered at InFocus College, please see our College prospectus.

If you are considering InFocus College as an option, feel free to reach out to our admissions team.

We suggest arranging a visit to see what we have to offer. We would love to give you a tour of our campus and discuss your needs.

Email: college@infocus-charity.org.uk

Telephone number: 01392 454200