Post‑16 Education information for Young People and their families with   SEND

Leaving school at 16 can feel like a big step, but it also brings new opportunities, independence and the chance to shape your future. If you are unsure about your next move, every school has a designated staff member who can support you with careers guidance and help you explore your options.

Lewisham’s full Post‑16 SEND information is available here:

👉 Post‑16 education for young people with SEND https://lewisham.gov.uk/myservices/education/send/post-16-education-for-young-people-with-send (lewisham.gov.uk in Bing)

All young people must remain in education or training until their 18th birthday. This does not mean you must stay at school — several pathways may suit your interests, learning style, and support needs.

You can stay at your current school or apply to a different sixth form if they offer the subjects or vocational courses you want. Visiting open days and exploring websites can help you decide.

Find sixth form options in Lewisham: 👉 Sixth form colleges in Lewisham https://lewisham.gov.uk/myservices/education/schools/sixth-form-colleges (lewisham.gov.uk in Bing)

Many special schools also offer post‑16 pathways.

Further education colleges offer a wide range of courses for all abilities, including supported learning programmes for young people aged 16–25 with SEND. These may include:

• IT and business skills

• Pathways to independence

• Catering and horticulture

• Preparation for employment

More information: 👉 Further education options for over 16s https://lewisham.gov.uk/myservices/education/send/post-16-education-for-young-people-with-send/further-education-options-for-over-16s (lewisham.gov.uk in Bing)

Apprenticeships allow you to:

• Gain real work experience

• Earn a salary

• Achieve a nationally recognised qualification

Apprenticeships exist in many fields, including engineering, accountancy, financial services, digital roles and veterinary nursing.

Useful links: 👉 National Apprenticeship Service https://www.apprenticeships.gov.uk/ (apprenticeships.gov.uk in Bing) 👉 Lewisham Apprenticeship Programme https://lewisham.gov.uk/myservices/education/post-16-education-and-training/apprenticeships (lewisham.gov.uk in Bing)

Traineeships are designed for young people who need additional support before progressing to an apprenticeship or employment. They include:

• English and maths (if needed)

• Work preparation training

• High‑quality work experience

Programmes last from six weeks to six months, with up to 80% of learning taking place in a workplace.

More information: 👉 NEET Traineeship https://lewisham.gov.uk/myservices/education/post-16-education-and-training/traineeships (lewisham.gov.uk in Bing)

Supported internships help young people with higher or complex needs gain meaningful work experience with tailored support. You must have an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) or a Learning Disability Assessment to apply.

Lewisham’s supported internship information: 👉 Supported internships and opportunities https://lewisham.gov.uk/myservices/education/send/post-16-education-for-young-people-with-send/supported-internships (lewisham.gov.uk in Bing)

Additional resources: 👉 Preparing for Adulthood – Supported Internships https://www.preparingforadulthood.org.uk/what-we-do/supported-internships (preparingforadulthood.org.uk in Bing)

This includes videos, accessible fact sheets and stories from young people who have completed internships.

If you continue your studies and achieve a Level 3 qualification (A‑levels, BTECs or equivalent), higher education may be an option.

More information: 👉 Higher education options for over 16s https://lewisham.gov.uk/myservices/education/send/post-16-education-for-young-people-with-send/higher-education-options-for-over-16s (lewisham.gov.uk in Bing)