Parent / Carer Area
What support is there to help my child prepare for the future?

Preparation should start early - long before your child becomes an adult.

Since the Raising of the Participation Age the law states that young people must be in some form of ‘education or training’ until they are 18. This can include

· Further education at a local college or training provider to follow a study programme— list here (link to PDF)

· Apprenticeship- An apprenticeship is a way to gain the skills, knowledge and experience you need to get into many careers. They combine work, training and study, letting you ‘earn while you learn’. Apprenticeships are available across a range of areas. Further information can be found here.

· Traineeship- Usually a 6 month programme made up of extended work experience working towards qualifications. A traineeship will normally lead to an apprenticeship or work.

· Supported Internship- Supported Internships are a study programme for learners with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs). Learners will have a work placement and complete relevant qualifications alongside their placement. More information about Liverpool’s Supported Internship programme.

If your son/daughter has a Education, Health and Care (EHC) plan, the Year 9 annual review  and every review after that, will include a focus on preparing for adulthood. This means there should be targets in the EHC plan that will help your child to achieve steps towards preparing for post 16 options. The EHCP will be updated as your child progresses.

You can find a breakdown of all post 16 options here or watch this short video

From year 7 your son/daughter can access impartial careers advice that will be tailored to their needs. Speak to Mrs Buchannan to arrange an appointment— parents are welcome to speak to the school careers advisor or attend any in school meetings. Contact contact Mrs Buchannan via the main school office to arrange

Useful websites and contacts

· Sefton local offer website provides information for children and young people up to the age of 25 with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) their parents or carers - all in one place. Knowing what is out there gives you more choice and control over what support is right for you or your child. You can also contact the  Liverpool City Council’s SEN department on 0151 233 3000.

· www.parentalguidance.org.uk

· List of local Colleges and Training Providers

· National Careers Service—Speak to a Careers Advisor for advice and support— 0800 100 900

· National Apprenticeship Service
nationalhelpdesk@findapprenticeship.service.gov.uk
Telephone: 0800 015 0400