
There are a range of options for young people once they reach 18 - including Education, Training and Employment. This progression is important to consider as the young person approaches 18 and should be incorporated into PEPs. Education A young person may wish to remain or start at a college, where choices include a range of academic and vocational courses - for example, A- Levels, T-Levels, BTEC and Diplomas. Most colleges also now offer Higher Education courses to Degree level, to allow young people to study locally.
If the young person has not yet achieved English and Maths Qualifications to GCSE Level 4/Functional Skills Level 2, support to achieve these qualifications will also be available. A young person may also wish to attend University, and the VST will provide support with this process, including support with UCAS.
Training
Traineeships are study programs for young people without level 3 qualifications to help prepare them for an apprenticeship or other sustainable employment where training is 'on the job'. Traineeships should last for a minimum of six weeks and a maximum of six months. The core aim of a traineeship is a high-quality work placement with an employer of between 100 and 240 hours, which is offered alongside work preparation training, and English and Math's if required. Providers and employers can bring these elements together in the best way to engage and support individual trainees and to integrate other support and training, such as mentoring, careers guidance, vocational qualifications, and job search support.
The aim of traineeships is to support young people into apprenticeships and sustainable employment. Funding has been made available for providers to start or expand traineeship programs. Providers are encouraged to make more opportunities available in occupations where workplace learning is available and specific qualifications are not required
Apprenticeship
Apprenticeships are jobs where young people can learn, gain experience and be paid for their work. By the end of their apprenticeship, they will have a wealth of hands-on experience and a formal qualification in their area of study. This is fully funded by the government and employer. To search for vacancies look at:
https://www.gov.uk/apply-apprenticeship
https://www.sthelens.ac.uk/apprentices/apprenticeships/
Supported internships. Supported internships offer young people with an EHC plan an opportunity to develop the skills, experience, and confidence they need for employment. The core aim of a supported internship is a substantial work placement with the support of an expert job coach. Alongside their time with the employer, supported interns complete a personalised study program that includes English and Maths, and the chance to study for relevant qualifications, where appropriate. Internships normally last for a year and include unpaid work placements of at least six months. The aim is to support the young person to paid employment at the end of the program.
SEND
https://www.sthelens.ac.uk/course/supported-internship-programme/