When a young person with SEND finishes Year 11, they have a range of options to continue learning, gain skills, and prepare for adult life. This stage is often called post-16 or further education.

In Croydon, we want all young people with special educational needs and disabilities to have equal access to learning and support beyond school, whether they choose to stay in education, start training, or explore work-based opportunities. 

Post-16 options for young people with SEND may include:

• College courses - academic or vocational (practical) learning
  
• Specialist SEND programmes - tailored courses with extra support
  
• Supported internships - work-based learning with support
  
• Traineeships or apprenticeships - training while gaining experience
  
• Independent living skills programmes - preparing for adulthood
  

Support continues after school to make sure your young person can keep learning and developing with the right help in place. 

Croydon offers a range of services to support young people with SEND and their families after age 16, including:

Education and Specialist Settings:

• Croydon College - inclusive courses and support for learners with SEND.
• John Ruskin College - additional learning support and tailored transition programmes.
• Specialist post-16 provisions (e.g. Priory School Sixth Form and Addington Valley)
  

Work-Based Learning:

• Supported Internships at Croydon College and John Ruskin College, including job coach support.
• Traineeships and apprenticeships with advice from careers teams and local providers.
• Access to Work - help with travel or workplace adjustments.

Preparing for Adulthood Support:

• Independent living skills, travel training, and money management.
• Social and leisure opportunities.
• Transition planning with the EHCP annual review process.

Family and Advice Services:

• Croydon SENDIASS - free advice about education, rights, and options.
• Croydon Careers Advice and Guidance Service - impartial support with future planning.
• Croydon Local Offer - up-to-date information about services, courses, and support. 

Council for Disabled Children: Preparing for Adulthood

NDTi: Preparing for Adulthood Tools and Resources

Year 11 Timeline