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Preparing for Post-16 Transition at The Park School

Preparing for Post-16 Transition at The Park School

At the end of Year 11, your child will move on to the next stage of their education. Most students progress to college or a specialist post-16 placement (such as a sixth form). Preparing for this important transition begins in KS3 to allow families enough time to explore options, visit settings, and ensure the right provision is in place.

By law, all young people must remain in education or training until the age of 18. Students with an EHCP can access free education and training until the age of 25, but this is dependent on continued progress and there is no automatic entitlement after 19.

Our role is to support, guide and advise throughout the process, but parents/carers make the final decisions and submit applications.

What We Offer to Support Transition

Year 9

Post-16 Preparation Afternoon – local providers visit the school to share information and advice on future education and training options.
Opportunity to start early research into suitable post-16 settings in life skills lessons.
Subjects linking academic content to careers and future study options.

Year 10

Annual Review – initial discussion with parents/carers about future aspirations and next steps.
Careers Guidance – one-to-one interview for all students and parents with a trained careers adviser to explore career goals and pathways.
Exams Support – advice on which exams your child will be taking.
Guidance on benefits available at age 16.
Post-16 Preparation Afternoon repeated to provide updated advice.
Research into suitable post-16 settings in life skills lessons.
Subjects linking academic content to careers and future study options.

Year 11

Annual Review (Autumn Term) – allows time for EHCPs to be updated and for consultations with colleges or post-16 providers.
Parents/carers, school staff and SEND Case Officers discuss options and finalise plans.
Draft amended EHCPs are shared via email, giving families the chance to request consultations with specific colleges or make further changes.
Final EHCPs are issued with confirmed placements by 31st March. If parents disagree, they have the right to mediation or appeal.
Work Experience – opportunities to develop skills and prepare for future employment.
Guidance on benefits available at age 16+.
Research into suitable post-16 settings in life skills lessons.
Subjects linking academic content to careers and future study options.

Key Message

Planning for life beyond The Park School is a gradual process starting in KS3. We will support you every step of the way, but the final decision rests with you as parents/carers. Please speak to us if you need any advice or guidance.