Two hikers in a forest

Careers advice and guidance at SEND4

Information for members, parents and carers

Our aim

At SEND4, our aim is to prepare young people for a safe, happy and productive adult life. Careers education is an important part of this and is carefully planned to support each young person’s individual needs, strengths and aspirations.

We understand that young people with SEND may need extra guidance, time and reassurance when thinking about their future. Our careers programme is therefore personalised, supportive and realistic, helping our members to make informed choices about their next steps.

Our Approach to Careers Guidance

Careers guidance at SEND4 is person-centred and attachment aware. We place strong emphasis on building trusting relationships so that young people feel safe to explore their interests, talk about worries and develop confidence in planning for adulthood.

As a small provision with a high level of support, we know our members very well. This allows us to:

  • Identify individual strengths, interests and talents
  • Set achievable and meaningful career goals
  • Support emotional readiness for change and transition
  • Work at a pace that suits each young person

Young people are encouraged to explore future options in a way that feels positive, manageable and empowering.

What our members can expect

Members at SEND4 will receive support to:

  • Explore different types of jobs and career pathways
  • Learn about further education, training and employment options
  • Develop key life and work-related skills such as communication, teamwork and independence
  • Build confidence, self-belief and resilience
  • Prepare for transitions into post-16 education, training or employment

Careers learning is woven into the curriculum and supported through individual discussions, activities and real-life experiences wherever possible.

Support for parents and carers

We recognise the vital role that parents and carers play in supporting young people with career planning. We work closely with families to ensure that careers guidance is clear, realistic and aligned with each young person’s needs.

Parents and carers can expect:

  • Regular communication about future pathways and next steps
  • Involvement in transition planning and reviews
  • Support in understanding post-16 and post-18 options
  • Guidance on local services, providers and support agencies

We encourage open and honest conversations and value parental insight as part of the planning process.

Preparing for adulthood

Careers education at SEND4 links closely with Preparing for Adulthood outcomes, including:

  • Employment and volunteering
  • Independent living skills
  • Community participation
  • Health and emotional wellbeing

Our goal is to help young people leave SEND4 feeling prepared, supported and hopeful about their future.

Careers guidance

SEND4 provides impartial Careers Advice and Guidance, supporting individuals to explore their options, understand pathways, and make informed decisions about their future. Our advice is independent, person-centred, and tailored to individual strengths, needs, and aspirations.

Useful information for members and families

Contact us

If you have any questions about careers advice and guidance at SEND4, or would like further support, call us on +44 (0)1202 022014 to get in touch.

Get involved, get working and make a difference!

Disability Confident - CommittedDisability Confident - Employer