1. Post-19 options and their funding
Martin McLean
Education & Training Policy Advisor

2. Levels…
Level
Qualifications at this level:
Entry Levels 1 - 3
ESOL, Skills for Life, entry-level functional skills
Level 1
GCSE grades D-G (3-1), Level 1 NVQs, level 1 functional skills
Level 2
GCSEs grades A-C (9-4), level 2 functional skills, intermediate apprenticeships, Level 2 NVQs
Level 3
A-levels, advanced apprenticeships, BTECs, Access to higher education diploma
Level 4
HNCs, higher apprenticeships, Level 4 NVQ
Level 5
Foundation degree, higher national diploma
Level 6
Bachelor degree, degree apprenticeship, level 6 NVQ
Levels 7 and 8
Post-graduate qualifications

3. Further education maintaining an EHCP….
Continuing a fully-funded programme of study in further education is possible
The SEND Code of Practice states that: “local authorities should consider the need to provide a full package of provision and support…that covers 5 days a week”
Consider non-educational activities such as work experience, volunteering or independent travel training

4. Further education without an EHCP…
Course fees are funded depending on your employment status and previous qualifications
Advanced Learner loans available
Learning support funding available to cover the costs of support needs. The learning provider is responsible for applying for funding.

5. Apprenticeships Are an option for all ages
Can be taken at levels 2 to 6
Earn a wage
Are generally applied for in the same way you apply for a job
Can maintain an EHCP whilst on an apprenticeship

6. Apprenticeships funding
Learning Support Funding (ESFA)
£150 a month plus up to 19K additional funding
Applied for by the training provider.
Does not cover costs of support in workplace
Access to Work (DWP)
Up to 42K per year
Applied for by the disabled individual
Pays for support in the workplace or on training but not for specialist tuition / study support.

7. Traineeships
Courses with work experience that aim to get you ready for work or an apprenticeship
Last up to 6 months
For people aged who are qualified below level 3
Access to Work is available and learning support or high needs funding (for those with EHCPs)

8. Supported internships
Structured study programme based primarily with an employer.
Unpaid and last a minimum of 6 months
For young people aged with an EHC plan
Access to Work funding is available and a supported employment provider can apply on their behalf

9. Higher education
A level 3 qualification is generally required for entry
A EHC plan cannot be maintained when starting higher education
Fees up to £9,250 per year are charged
Students can apply for Disabled Student Allowances to cover the costs of support

10. Disabled Student Allowances
Non-medical helpers allowance
£21, 305 / yr
Specialist equipment allowance
£5,358
General allowance
£1,790 / yr
Travel allowance
Uncapped

11. Employment EHC plan cannot be maintained if not in education
If in paid employment, Access to Work is available
Support to find employment is available through JobCentre Plus

12. Where to go for further info and support
Martin McLean
Education & Training Policy Advisor

13. Preparing for Adulthood
Range of resources for parents, young people and professionals on:
EHCPs
Local offers
Transition planning
Personal budgets
Employment

14. Careers advice UCAS www.ucas.com/what-are-my-options
National Careers Service

15. National Deaf Children’s Society
Deaf young people up to 25 and their parents can get in touch with us for free advice and guidance

16. RNIB helpline
Web: Phone: