Question to the Department for Education:

To ask the Secretary of State for Education, what steps he is taking to increase the (a) quantity and (b) quality of employment and training opportunities for SEND students over the age of 16.

The Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) Code of Practice explicitly states that all children and young people with SEND, whether or not they have an Education, Health and Care (EHC) plan, should be prepared for adulthood, including employment. We know that with the right preparation and support, the overwhelming majority of young people with SEND are capable of sustained paid employment. All professionals working with them should share that presumption and should provide the career advice and support that help young people to develop the skills and experience, and achieve the qualifications, that they need to succeed in their careers.

Work-based learning is available through personalised study programmes for all young people aged 16 to 19, or up to age 25 if the young person has an EHC plan. This includes:

• Supported Internships – these are structured study programmes, based primarily at an employer. They equip young people who have an EHC plan with the skills they need for work, through learning in the workplace. In December 2017, the department provided an additional £9.7 million to local authorities to train job coaches and establish supported internship forums, bringing together local partners to develop and deliver supported internships in their area.

• Traineeships - these support young people aged 16-24 (25 with an EHC plan) by providing quality training for young people who need to develop their skills and experience to access apprenticeships and other sustainable employment. The department is currently considering how the programme can provide a more effective pathway into apprenticeships. We are also considering greater flexibility and employer involvement in the design, whilst retaining what currently works.

• We have also taken steps to ensure apprenticeships are accessible to those with an EHC plan or legacy statement. This includes adjusting the minimum English and maths requirements to Entry Level 3 Functional Skills if they struggle to achieve the regular English and maths minimum requirements but can otherwise meet the occupational standards of the apprenticeship.

• We have also funded Mencap, to help colleges arrange work experience placements for learners with SEND.

However, we know there is more to do and that is why in September, my right hon. Friend, the Secretary of State for Education announced a cross-government review of provision for children and young people with SEND, to ensure that they are supported to thrive and prepare for adulthood, including employment.