Parent and carer guide to planning for college or training

Some young people will already have a clear idea of what and where they would like to study.

Some need to have a better idea of what is available before deciding.

Your school's Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator (SENCO) will be able to help you know what level of course to look for. The college or training provider will also be able to advise.

Talking with your young person will help you both decide which of these are important to you at this stage:

• Developing independence
• Gaining skills for employment
• Beginning to train towards a particular job or career (vocational learning)
• aiming to gain more academic qualifications

Start or refine your search by looking at the following:

Help you Choose website

The Help You Choose website has dedicated guidance on courses, programmes and training for young people with SEND.

You can search the website for courses and training by geographical area, course topic and by level. You can apply to a college or training provider directly from Help You Choose.

Special Educational Needs and/or Disabilities (SEND) local offer

The SEND Local Offer has education and training information.

College or training provider's websites

Carry out an internet search for the college or training provider you are interested in. You will often find information about the courses they offer on their websites.

Speak to someone

Most colleges and training providers have advisers to talk to. You will often be able to find the telephone number for their main reception on their website. Ask to speak to someone who can give you information, advice and guidance about their courses. These advisers will also be able to give you good, impartial advice about other providers.

Check entry criteria

All courses will have different entry requirements. Make sure the courses you choose match your young person's abilities and qualifications.