The Post-16 question, Narrative & Fidget Spinners 6th May 2017 Dear All Our children’s futures = what happens next? Also, please read on for our list of local advice and information sources…
Post-16 = where next? Post-16 or Preparing for Adulthood (or anything after the usual school has finished) is one of the biggest challenges of the SEND Reforms. The SEND Reforms allow for support within Education to go to age 25 (instead of age 18). But… many colleges, employers and local statutory services are not yet geared up to do this. Why? Because it’s difficult! There are no true guidelines for this – best practice is developed as the changes to the various systems develop. Within Achieving for Children (provider of children’s services within Kingston & Richmond) there are several services that support these age group. Each service does a different bit. The plan is to harmonise these teams, with the intention being to make life better for young people; to improve outcomes and increase local options. Here are some of the areas they’re working on: • • • • •
Create a single Post-16 panel for agreeing provision and placements, to place greater emphasis on college and vocational options (training for a job or work placement). Increasing young people’s independence (travel etc) Enabling schools to offer better careers advice for those with SEND Increasing work experience opportunities for all young people
Question: We’ve been asked to seek parent’s and family’s views on this. We know there is a kind of ‘cliff edge’ after school is completed and, as parents, we all want our children to do the best they can. So… 1. Overall, what do you think? 2. What would help your young person get into further education and/or paid work? 3. What would you like to see more of? (or less of?) Reply to: sendfamilyvoices@outlook.com
Come and chat… (and eat cake) We are holding a series of Informal Open Meetings for parents to meet other parents. Letters are in the post next week! Whether you are new to the world of SEND or an 'old hand', we aim to answer your questions and facilitate open discussion on what is important to you. Our meetings will provide the chance to talk to other parents in a relaxed atmosphere and to learn from each other. Thursday 15th June - 10.30am to 12.30pm Express CIC, 452 Ewell Road, Surbiton, KT6 7EL Friday 16th June - 10.30am to 12noon