Preparing for adulthood: Post-18 options
After 18, young people with Special Educational Needs or Disabilities (SEND) have many options to help them continue learning and build independence. These can include college courses, vocational training, supported internships, supported employment, or specialist programs.
Choosing the right path helps them develop important skills, gain confidence, and work towards their goals. With the right support, post-18 options can open opportunities for a happy and fulfilling future.
From the age of 18 young people can explore:
University and higher education
Some young people choose to continue their education at university after age 18. Universities offer a wide range of academic and vocational courses, and there is support available for students with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). For more visit the UCAS website.
If you go to university, your EHC plan stops. However, there are a variety of funding options and support available to you.
For students with additional needs, support such as Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) is available to help with study aids, note-taking services, and other accommodations.
Further Education (FE) Options for 18+
Further Education colleges are not just for school leavers. They also provide opportunities for young people aged 18 and over to continue learning, gain qualifications, and prepare for employment. This includes advanced vocational courses, technical training, and access to higher education.
Visit the post-16 pages to find out more.
Additional Learning Opportunities
Open University: Offers flexible, distance-learning courses for adults of all ages. This is a great option for learners who want to study from home, balance education with work, or pursue higher education at their own pace.
Find out more on the Open University website.
Bromley Adult Education College (BAEC): For adults aged 19+ with SEND, BAEC offers structured SEND courses including vocational and functional skills such as Employability, Digital Skills, GCSE English and Maths, Cookery, Gardening, Arts and Crafts, Drama, Photography, Healthy Lifestyle, Music, and more. Courses are aimed at developing life skills, confidence, communication, and independence. The SEND programme includes clear learning outcomes, smaller classes, and supportive assessment and enrolment processes to meet individual needs.
Find out more on the Bromley Adult Education College.
Work Experience and Employment Pathways
Supported Internships
Supported internships are structured study programmes designed for young people with SEND who have an Education, Health and Care plan (often referred to as an EHCP). They combine workplace experience with classroom learning to help develop skills for employment.
Find out more on our Supported Internships page.
Volunteering
Volunteering can be a valuable way for young people to gain experience, learn new skills, and contribute to their community. It can also help build confidence and improve employability.