What are my options when school ends when I am 16 or 18?
Council services over Christmas
Some of our services will change during the festive season.
Local offer - 14 to 25 years
Solihull Local offer - information for 14 to 25 years
We understand that growing up and things changing can be difficult for anyone, especially those with additional needs and/or SEND.
In Solihull we hope to support you so you can say "I know what will happen, when it will happen and who I can communicate with about this".
Are you a parent or carer who would like to stay informed about careers Information for young people with Special Education Needs and Disabilities? Follow this link to stay up to date with news, events, and resources to help you and your young person as they navigate their path into the world of work: SEND Careers Parent and Information
Education
Employment, apprenticeships, training and supported internships
There are several non-education options available for young people aged 16 to 18.
These options include:
- Apprenticeships - apprenticeships provide a combination of on-the-job training and formal study, allowing young individuals to earn while they learn and gain practical skills in various industries
- Employment - young people can choose to enter the workforce directly, seeking full-time or part-time employment to gain practical experience and earn a wage.
- Supported Internships - designed for young individuals with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), supported internships offer structured study programs within workplaces to equip them with skills for paid employment
It's important for young people to consider their interests, strengths, and goals when choosing from these non-education options to ensure they select the right path that best meets their aspirations and needs.
Guide to post-16 for parents of children and young people with SEND
Routing for them - A parent’s/carer’s simple guide to education, training and employment pathways for those with SEND
Presentation covering post-16 options for young people with SEND
Advocacy and advice services
Where can I get further information on advocacy and advice services?
- Citizens Advice - Solihull Borough
- Solihull Community Advice Hubs
- Social Life Opportunities - We help people with learning disabilities to look afresh at their true potential
- Solihull SENDIAS Service (Special Educational Needs and Disability Information Advice and Support)
Advocacy is about making sure that people’s rights are protected, that their views, wishes and feelings are heard and listened to, that they are supported to make their own informed choices, to be independent and to change things to make them better.
- Solihull Action through Advocacy (SAtA) - Enabling people to have a voice and be heard
Life skills
What other services can I access for help and to develop life skills?
- What short breaks and respite care services are available in Solihull?
- What services are available from the Children’s Services - Childrens Disability Team?
- What services are available through local health services?
- Where can I get advice and support on housing?
- How can I get help with independent travel training?
Preparing for adulthood
We understand that becoming an adult can be an anxious time. This is even more of a concern if you have care and support needs.
We have developed a pathway to enable us to get to know you and your needs better by the time you are 18. This will help you to know what support you are likely to receive as an adult and the options available.
Find a service
Leisure and Activities
- What regular events are available to join in Solihull?
- What sports facilities are available in Solihull?
- What youth groups are available to join in Solihull?