Moving on from school to college is an exciting stage in a young person’s life, but it can also feel overwhelming without the right support. For young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), planning for this transition is especially important to ensure they have the right opportunities, support, and guidance to succeed.
This section of the Local Offer includes links to the post-16 college options that are available, including links to information about the courses on offer and how to access support.
You’ll find information on:
- Local colleges and specialist providers (including in and around the Derbyshire area)
- Links to information about the support available for learners with SEND
Our aim is to make the transition to college as smooth and positive as possible, ensuring every young person feels confident and ready for their next chapter.
To help you explore college options, we have prepared the following top tips, or view our directory of Post--16 Colleges.
Top Tips for Exploring Your College Options
Start early
Begin looking at options well before Year 11. Early planning gives time to visit colleges, ask questions, and consider support needs.
Use the Local Offer
Use the information we have included on our Derbyshire Local Offer for details of colleges, and other post-16 training options, and the available support.
Visit colleges in person
Attend open days or arrange individual visits. Seeing the environment and meeting staff can help you decide if it feels right.
Ask about the support that can be provided
Find out what SEND support is available, including learning support assistants and accessibility adjustments.
Check EHC Plan arrangements
If you have an Education, Health and Care (EHC) plan, ask how the college will deliver the support outlined in your plan.
Explore courses and entry requirements
Look at the subjects offered, entry criteria, and whether there are flexible pathways for learners with additional needs.
Think about travel
Consider how you will get to college. Ask about transport options or travel training if needed.
Talk about Preparing for Adulthood
Discuss how the college supports independence, work experience, and life skills as part of your long-term goals.
Involve parents and carers
Make decisions together. Their input and support are vital for a smooth transition.
Ask about transition support
Many colleges offer transition visits and taster days to help you settle in before term starts.
Further Education Colleges:
All Courses | Additional Learner Support
All Courses | SEN Information
All Courses | SEND Policy
All Courses | Learning Support Services | Graduated Support
Life Skills | Vocational | Employability | Lifelong Learning
Courses | Additional Learning Support
Courses | Additional Learner Support | SEND Support
Courses | Accessibility
Prospectus | Curriculum Pathways
Courses | Learning Support
Courses | Supported Learning
Courses | SEND and Additional Support
Courses | Learner Support
Courses | Learner Services
Courses | Additional Learning Support
Sixth Form Colleges:
Courses | Pathways Programme
Courses | Learning Support and Well Being
Land Based Colleges:
All Courses | Disability Support | Disability Services
Courses | Learning Support