Agency interaction in the SEND system needs reform, says AoC

David Holloway, Senior Policy Manager - SEND, Association of Colleges, said: "Today’s report from Ofsted and the Care Quality Commission on preparation for adulthood arrangements for young people with SEND reveals in stark terms what colleges have long known: that students’ transitions into college and towards adulthood are hampered by a whole range of problems. There is a lack of specialist support from health provision for college students, education health and care plans (EHCPs) are too often not focussed on preparation for adulthood, and transition can be even more difficult for students without EHCPs.

“Colleges do wonderful work helping students of all abilities develop skills for adulthood, whether that’s preparing them for employment or independent living. However, what needs to change is the way that different agencies in the wider SEND system fit together to support students with SEND along the entirety of their journey in education.”