Special Educational Needs Information
At Woodham Academy, we are dedicated to providing personalised careers support for students with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). In Key Stage 4 our careers programme includes 1:1 guidance meetings to help students explore their aspirations and plan future pathways. We ensure SEND students can fully access and engage with careers events, activities, and taster days through specialist support. During the GCSE options process, we offer bespoke advice to help students and families make informed choices aligned with individual strengths and goals. As students approach post-16 transitions, we provide personalised support—including individual provider visits where needed—and work closely with parents and external agencies to ensure a smooth and confident move into further education, apprenticeships, or supported employment.
Here are a range of different agencies can aid with our SEND students next steps.
East Durham College – SEND Programs East Durham College is a prominent provider of further education for SEND students in the North East. The college offers a wide range of opportunities and support for learners aged 16-24 with special educational needs and disabilities. Additionally, they provide Supported Internships aimed at enhancing the life prospects of young people with SEND by facilitating their transition into sustained paid employment.
SEND Courses Section | East Durham College
New College Durham – Apprenticeships New College Durham offers a variety of apprenticeships across multiple sectors, providing opportunities for students to earn while they learn. These programs are designed to equip students with practical skills and qualifications, facilitating a smooth transition into the workforce.
Apprenticeships Durham County Council – Transition Support Durham County Council provides transitional support for young people with SEND progressing into post-16 education. Discussions about next steps are integrated into the Year 11 Education, Health, and Care Plan (EHCP) reviews or SEN support plan reviews. Secondary schools also incorporate preparation for adulthood into their curriculum and offer independent career advice tailored to the needs of students with SEND.
Durham Works offers support to students in County Durham schools or residents aged 14– 16. They provide various forms of assistance to young people referred by schools or other professionals, focusing on preparing them for post-16 education or employment opportunities.
Durham Enable – Supported Employment Durham Enable delivers personalized support through one-to-one job coaching for individuals with SEND. Their approach is tailored to meet personal work goals, assisting young people in achieving employment that aligns with their aspirations and needs.
Supported Employment - Durham Enable
Supported internships are structured, work-based study programs specifically designed for 16- to 24-year-olds with SEND who have an Education, Health, and Care (EHC) plan. These internships focus on substantial workplace experience, typically comprising around 70% of the program, and are facilitated by expert job coaches. This hands-on approach helps students develop essential skills in a real-world environment, often leading to employment opportunities or further apprenticeships.