Traineeships
These are education and training programmes with work experience, focusing on giving young people the skills and experience they need to help them compete for an apprenticeship or other jobs.
Traineeships last a maximum of six months and include core components of work preparation training, English and maths (unless GCSE A*-C standard has already been achieved) and a high-quality work experience placement.
Young people can retain their EHC Plan when on a traineeship.
Apprenticeships
These are paid jobs that incorporate training, leading to nationally recognised qualifications. Apprentices earn as they learn and gain practical skills in the workplace. Many lead to highly skilled careers.
Young people with EHC plans can retain their plan when on an apprenticeship.
Supported internships
These are structured study programmes for young people with an EHC Plan, based primarily at an employer. Internships normally last for a year and include extended unpaid work placements of at least six months.
Wherever possible, they support the young person to move into paid employment at the end of the programme.
Students complete a personalised study programme which includes the chance to study for relevant substantial qualifications, if suitable, and English and maths to an appropriate level.
Young people with EHC plans will retain their plan when undertaking a supported internship.
Young people may be eligible for funding from Access to Work. This is available from the Department for Work and Pensions.
Schools and Post 16 institutions should support young people to apply if they are considering entering into apprenticeships, traineeships or supported internships.
The local authority will work in partnership with the young person, the family and the post 16 institution to determine the best route for them.
A thorough assessment will be conducted to ascertain the student’s potential, abilities, interests and areas they want to develop.
A similar assessment will be carried out with any potential work placement to make certain the experience is a positive one for the young person.
The Local Offer will identify where employment and training opportunities can be obtained. The local authority will work with young people and their families to access the appropriate Preparing for Adulthood Pathway to meet their individual needs and career aspirations.