Embedded Files
The Careers Team are here to help all students and apprentices with SEND. This is inclusive of students and apprentices with an EHCP.
We give impartial information, advice and guidance. We also have a programme of activities on offer all year, including:
bookable appointments
drop-in advice sessions
group activities
events and workshops
We always listen to your needs to provide you with honest and fair advice that is tailored to your interests and passions.
We work with a range of services, including those at the Sheffield College and outside of it.
Whether you want to continue learning with us or explore new opportunities in the community, we are here to support your journey every step of the way.
What is an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP)?
An Education, Health and Care (EHC) plan is a legal document. It describes a child or young person’s educational, health and social care needs. If you have one, it will set out the specialist provision needed to support your needs. It will also cover how to achieve agreed long-term outcomes. The local authority issues them after an EHC needs assessment.
If you have an EHCP, you can continue your learning journey on a dedicated course at The Sheffield College designed to build your independence and job-ready skills, or you could potentially progress (or already be on) a vocational or academic course.
The EHCP is there to help you! You can access the Careers Team to support with your plan. It is something that grows with you as you will review it to make sure you're on track for your outcomes.
Hear about our EHCP students at the college on their Supported
Work-Skills placements
What can I do for a career as a student with SEND (or an EHCP)?
The short answer is - anything!
You have lots of choices for your next step. From a Supported Internship to an Apprenticeship, Further or Higher Level study, or even Self-Employment. For all these options it is important to strengthen your core qualifications in Maths and English.
Every job has entry requirements so it's important to do your research into the career and what path is best. Some routes for example will be more practical than others, so it is important to work around your strengths.
Planning Your Post-16 Journey.pdfClick on the links below to find out more about the progression options available
How can I progress my career and be more employable?
You can do any of the following to help progress your career.
Boost your skills with a course or study
Targeted programmes: Build confidence with specialist courses like The King’s Trust, Pre-Technical Skills for Work or Aspire to Be
Core qualifications: Strengthen essential everyday skills with English and Maths courses, especially if you're over the age of 19.
Vocational training: Gain hands-on practical experience in exciting areas like Catering, Hospitality, or IT and Computing.
Take a supported route into work
Supported Internships: Work in a real workplace with the direct guidance of a job coach to help you transition into paid employment. This is based either at Gulliver’s Valley or the Peaks Campus.
Community support: Access tailored guidance into employment through our local partner organisations. From taking workshops in how to apply for jobs to support in whilst at work such as Sheffield City Council (Pathways to Work), Shaw Trust, Scope or Stride.
Volunteer and gain experience
Build real experience: Spend your spare time learning new skills, testing out job roles, and giving back to the community.
Supportive placement partners: Find inclusive volunteering opportunities through organisations like the British Heart Foundation or look at all options with the Sheffield Volunteering Centre.
Travel and Independence Support
Sheffield Independent Travel Training
If you struggle with travel (to work, college or placement) there is free 1-to-1 training from available to help you learn public transport routes, road safety, and travel to college or work independently.
Travel South Yorkshire also has information on how to apply for discounted travel passes (e.g. Disabled Person's Pass).
I want to know more about... Apprenticeships as a student with SEND
Apprenticeship Case Studies and Resources
I want to know more about... Higher Education as a student with SEND
Apprenticeship Case Studies and Resources
Did you know you can get extra finance to support study at University Level?
If you are classed as disabled you are eligible to get additional funds through the Disabled Students' Allowance (DSA). ‘Disability’ includes mental health problems, unseen conditions (like epilepsy) and learning difficulties (such as dyslexia) as well as long-term physical conditions. You'll need to provide evidence or be assessed to receive DSA.
The money you get can support the purchase of specialist equipment, a non-medical helper, a general allowance and travel expenses. You do not have to pay DSA back and it is not affected by your other student loans.
Places you can get further help and advice
Page updated
Report abuse