Post 16 education and training

It is expected that all young people will stay in education or training until they are 18 years. This does not mean you have to stay at school. 

You could: 

• stay in full-time education at a college, school, or training provider,
• take up an apprenticeship, traineeship, or supported internship, or
• work or volunteer for 20 or more hours per week
• you can do this if you combine it with accredited part-time education or training 

Careers advice for young people with an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP)

The Council provides a career advice and guidance service to young people with an EHCP through Inspira. From year 9 Inspira Advisers will work with your son/daughter. Inspira's approach is flexible and tailored to each individual.
 

Staying on at a school with a 6th form

If your school has a 6th form and you want to stay on, you may need to formally apply. You should check with your school. 

If you want to go to a different school's 6th form, you can get information on all the schools with 6th forms on the Cumberland Council website. 

Further education

Further education colleges are for those aged 16 years and over. They offer a wide range of academic subjects and some vocational options. Many also provide a small learning environment with support. They offer a more independent learning environment than a school. There are 4 further education colleges in Cumbria. 

Supported internships

Supported internships (SI) are for 16 to 24 year olds with an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP). The aim of a SI is to secure a work placement with the help of a job coach. Interns are supported by a learning provider, like a school or college. However, they spend about 70% of their time working. Internships help young people gain the skills needed for paid jobs. This learning happens in the workplace. 

Interns are considered to be in full-time education. Their work placements are part of their course. There's no requirement or expectation for payment. Internships do not fall under national minimum wage laws. 

How long is a supported internship?

Supported internships last from 6 months to 1 year. Your EHCP would usually cease at the end of the internship as the aim of the programme is a move from education to employment.  

Apprenticeships

If you do an apprenticeship, you will work, get paid, do training and gain a qualification. Anyone who is 16 years or over can become an apprentice. An apprenticeship can take 1 to 5 years depending on the level. 

Apprenticeships have equivalent educational levels: 

Intermediate
Level 2
Educational level - General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE)

Advanced
Level 3
Educational level - A level

Higher
Level 4, 5, 6 and 7
Educational level - Foundation degree and above

Degree
Level 6 and 7
Education level - Bachelor's or Master's degree