Liverpool City Council has announced a new event designed to provide essential guidance and resources for young people with Special Educational Needs or Disabilities (SEND) as they prepare for adulthood. The 'Ready, Set, Thrive: Adulthood Awaits' event will take place on Wednesday, 22 October, offering a central hub for information on education, employment, and independent living.
The free event is aimed at secondary school students in Year 9 and above, along with their families and the professionals who support them. It will be held at the Atrium, Learning Exchange on Roscoe Street, from 4pm to 7pm, bringing together numerous support services and educational providers in one location.
Key Takeaways
- Event: Ready, Set, Thrive: Adulthood Awaits.
- Purpose: To support young people with SEND (Year 9+) in their transition to adulthood.
- Date and Time: Wednesday, 22 October, from 4pm to 7pm.
- Location: The Atrium, Learning Exchange, Roscoe Street, Liverpool.
- Cost: Free to attend, with no booking required.
A Central Hub for Support and Guidance
Navigating the transition from school to adulthood can be a complex process for any young person, but it can present unique challenges for those with SEND. Liverpool City Council has organised this event to simplify the journey by providing direct access to a wide range of experts and services.
Attendees will have the opportunity to speak with representatives from various sectors, including further education colleges, supported employment agencies, and independent travel training programmes. The primary goal is to empower young people and their families with the information they need to make confident and informed decisions about their future.
Councillor Joanne Kennedy, Cabinet Member for Employment, Educational Attainment and Skills, highlighted the importance of the initiative.
"Preparing for adulthood is an exciting but also challenging time, it can feel like there’s a lot to do and so many decisions to make. Our event Ready Set Thrive – Adulthood Awaits, aims to make this journey smoother, by bringing together key support services, all in one place. It’s a chance for young people, families, and professionals to ask questions and connect face to face with services and people who can shape their future."
Understanding 'Preparing for Adulthood'
The 'Preparing for Adulthood' (PfA) programme is a government-supported framework that helps young people with SEND achieve paid employment, independent living, good health, and community inclusion. This event directly supports these outcomes by connecting individuals with the local services that can help them achieve these goals.
What to Expect at the Event
The 'Ready, Set, Thrive' event is structured to be an informative and interactive experience. It serves as a one-stop shop for families seeking clarity on the various pathways available after secondary school. This includes academic routes, vocational training, and specialised support programmes.
Professionals and agencies that work with children with SEND are also encouraged to attend to network and gather the latest information on local provisions. The collaborative environment is intended to foster stronger support networks for young people across the city.
Specialist Presentations and Timetable
A key feature of the event is a series of short, focused presentations scheduled between 5pm and 6pm. These sessions are designed to provide detailed insights into specific options and support systems. The confirmed schedule is as follows:
- 5:00pm: What to consider when choosing your options – Led by Liverpool City Council’s Special Educational Needs Information Support Service (SENISS).
- 5:10pm: Post-16 options, curriculum, and support – Delivered by Hugh Baird College.
- 5:20pm: Post-16 options, curriculum, and support – Delivered by City of Liverpool College.
- 5:30pm: Post-16 options, curriculum, and support – Delivered by Knowsley Community College.
- 5:40pm: An overview of Supported Internships – Presented by Liverpool City Council.
- 5:50pm: Information on Independent Travel training – Presented by Liverpool City Council.
These presentations will offer valuable information on how to apply for various programmes and the welfare support available at each institution.
What are Supported Internships?
Supported internships are structured study programmes for young people aged 16 to 24 with an Education, Health and Care (EHC) plan. The core of the programme is a substantial work placement, where individuals learn skills on the job with support from a qualified job coach. The goal is to help them secure paid employment.
Practical Information for Attendees
The event has been organised to be as accessible as possible for all attendees. It is a drop-in event, meaning there is no need to book in advance. Families and professionals can simply turn up on the day at a time that suits them between 4pm and 7pm.
However, for those who wish to register their interest or notify organisers of any specific requirements they may have, an optional online form is available. Completing this form helps the council ensure everyone's needs are catered for effectively.
Refreshments will be provided throughout the evening. For any direct questions about the event, individuals can email Bernard Capper at [email protected].
Facilities and Travel
To support families attending with younger children, a crèche will be available on-site. This facility will be staffed by qualified teachers and college learners. To secure a place, booking in advance via the online form is required.
Regarding travel, attendees should note that there is limited car parking at the venue itself. The organisers have provided details for nearby public car parks:
- Parr Street Car Park (L1 4JN): Approximately a 6-minute walk from the venue.
- Mount Pleasant Car Park (L3 5TB): Approximately a 7-minute walk from the venue.
The Learning Exchange is also conveniently located for those using public transport. The nearest train station is Liverpool Central Station, which is a short walk away.