Education options after year 11
Find out what you can do after year 11 and where to get support
It’s the law that you must stay in education or training until you're 18.
You might stay at school, attend college, start an apprenticeship or join a training programme.
You can still get support if you have an Education, Health, and Care Plan (EHCP) or additional needs. Your EHCP can stay with you and help ensure you get the help you need.
Choose what suits you
You should feel confident about your next step. It should match your interests and abilities. From age 16, you have the right to make your own decisions. Your family and carers can support you, but it’s your future.
Next steps
Here's what usually happens in year 11:
- Autumn term: You review your EHCP or SEND support and apply for courses or training.
- Spring term: Your new college or training provider plans support for you.
- Summer term: You might visit your new place to meet staff and get familiar with the buildings and travel.
Tell your new provider about any extra support you need. It won't affect your place, but it helps them prepare.
Your options
Stay at school
You can stay at your current school for years 12 and 13 or apply to a different school.
College
Colleges offer academic, practical and life skills courses. They also have support teams for students with SEND.
Local colleges:
Nearby colleges:
- Buckinghamshire College Group
- Berkshire College of Agriculture
- Cirencester College
- Moulton College
- Newbury College
- New College Swindon
- Reading College
- Guide to SEN support in FE colleges (pdf format, 200KB)
Specialist colleges
If you need more support than a mainstream college can offer, specialist colleges may be right for you.
Work-based and community training
Some places offer entry-level courses and job skills training outside of school or college.
Apprenticeships
An apprenticeship means:
- You get a real job
- You earn money
- You learn skills on the job
- You study part-time
- Find apprenticeships
- OXME apprenticeship listings
Traineeships and supported internships
Traineeships (ages 16–24):
Short programmes with work experience, English and Maths, and job skills.
Supported internships (for young people with EHCPs)
Learn in a workplace with a job coach and some classroom learning.
University
University can help you become more independent. There is support available for students with SEND.
Things to think about:
- The right course and university
- Accommodation and facilities
- Money and study support
- UCAS SEND guide
- Disabled Students Allowance (DSA)
Help with travel
You might be able to get help with travel to college or training.
Learning levels and financial help
Exam stress
Some courses include exams. You might get support called access arrangements to help you show what you know.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed:
