Post-16 support for education and training

Post 16

The Virtual School has been expanded to include a dedicated post-16 advisor who will work with 16-18 year olds who are 'eligible' or 'relevant' (who are or have been in care and are entitled to this service) to the care system.

 The aim is to make sure that every young person receives the support they require to meet their individual needs, with the aim of ensuring they are in a positive destination. This can include support in finding a course or training programme which matches their skills and interests and which will help them towards their long term goal. For young people who may not wish to access college or training, appointments with the local youth support service will be made to look at all the options available to them.

How does it work?

We know that the transition to post 16 provisions can be daunting for some. In the summer term of year 11 virtual school advisors will liaise with schools to ensure a destination is secured for the next academic year. The post 16 advisor is available for guidance and advice around this. If required the post 16 advisor can be invited to the summer term PEP (Personal Education Plan). We will maintain contact throughout year 12 and year 13 and beyond if necessary to monitor progression and ensure support is in place when required. This is evidenced termly through the 16 plus training plan.

• Learning mentor referral form (MS Word, 72KB)
• 1:1 tuition referral form (MS Word, 34KB)

What additional options are available for our cared for care leavers?

• Post 16 tutor – available to support 1:1 or in small groups. Can support to achieve English and Math Functional Skills, individual learning programmes, catch up with college work, ESOL (English speakers of other languages)
• Learning mentor – Supporting with building confidence, emotional wellbeing etc, helping to reduce barriers to learning and raising aspirations
• Various programmes throughout the year are available for young people to link in to. Successful programmes which have run this year have included an Autumn Programme, Incognito group, Prince’s Trust and Safe Opportunities placements.

If you would like to find out any further information regarding the above programmes, contact Post 16 advisor Katie Foster 07817 481221 katie.foster@cheshireeast.gov.uk.

Work experience programme

Cygnet 2020 is a work experience programme available to cared for children and care leavers of Cheshire East. Find out more in the Cygnet work experience programme leaflet (PDF, 3MB).

To make a referral, complete the Cygnet work placement referral form (MS Word, 4.1MB) and send to katie.foster@cheshireeast.gov.uk. 

What funding support is available?

All young people who are eligible for post-16 support from Social Care are entitled to the 16-18 Bursary. This is a fund paid to schools and colleges which can be used to support the education of a care leaver. This is worth £1,200 per year and most schools and colleges pay this to the young person throughout the year, usually linked to good attendance, completing work on time and good conduct. Some providers might use this to give assistance with transport or equipment. Young people will be sent a letter at the end of Y11 to prove that they are entitled to this support.

While at school or college the Virtual School will continue to monitor the students' attendance and progress, so that any problems can be identified and put right as soon as possible