College, work and training
Going to college
There are lots of things to think about if you're deciding to go to college.
Find out what further education can offer young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
Where to work or train
Job support
Secondary schools and colleges have a careers programme which provides advice and support for each individual student.
You can also get job support from:
- Nacro - who offer personalised study programmes and vocational courses to provide young people and adults with skills needed to move in to further education, training or employment
- Kent Training and Apprenticeships - who offer apprenticeship opportunities and training to gain the skills needed to help you get a job
- CXK - who offer a range of services to empower young people across the south-east to build the skills and confidence needed to move into education, employment or training
- The Prince’s Trust - who work with young people aged 13 to 25 across Medway to work towards achieving their personal goals
- Jobcentre Plus - offer help with finding a job
- Specialist Employability Service - offer support and training to help you into work if you're disabled.
Information, Advice and Guidance Service (IAG)
IAG supports young people aged 16 to 17 who are not in education, employment or training (NEET).
They discuss opportunities and make a plan to move forward in their chosen career.
Phone 01634 335 599 or email iag@medway.gov.uk for more information.
Join IAG’s jobs page for the most recent vacancies in Medway.
Supported internships
Supported internships are a structured programme partly based at an employer. They are unpaid but they can help you to move on to paid employment at the end of the programme by giving you relevant skills and experience in the workplace. You will also have the opportunity to study for qualifications such as English and Maths. In order to access these young people must have an ECHP.
Search for Medway supported internships.
Apprenticeships
Apprenticeships combine practical training in a job with studying.
As an apprentice you will:
- work alongside experienced staff
- gain job-specific skills
- earn a wage and get holiday pay
- study towards a related qualification (usually one day a week).
It takes one to four years to complete the apprenticeship.
Find apprenticeships at Medway Council.
Search for employment and training programmes and services.
Starting your own business
If you have an idea for a new business, find out how you can set up on your own.