To help families understand the pathways, qualifications, and opportunities available
after age 16 and 18.
Navigating Next Steps
Demystifying Qualifications & Levels
Educational routes can feel overwhelming—especially for SEND students. Many new qualifications and terms (T Levels, Entry Level, Supported Internships). These are:-
Entry Level
Pre-GCSE
Good for students working below Level 1
Often part of foundation learning
Level 1
Equivalent to GCSE grades 1–3
Introductory vocational courses; stepping stone
Level 2
Equivalent to GCSE grades 4–9
Some apprenticeships & vocational courses
Level 3
A Levels
T Levels
L3 vocational qualifications (e.g., BTECs/CTECs)
Levels 4–6
Higher education (e.g., Foundation Degrees, Degrees, Higher Apprenticeships)
Apprenticeships
An apprenticeship is a paid job where you learn practical skills by working with an employer while also studying for a recognised qualification. It combines on-the-job training with classroom or online learning, so you can earn money, gain real work experience, and build skills in a specific career area at the same time. Apprenticeships are available in lots of industries (like business, childcare, construction, engineering, IT, and health), and they can be different levels—some are equivalent to GCSEs, A levels, or even higher education qualifications. At the end, you usually get a qualification and, in many cases, the opportunity to continue working for the employer.
Foundation Learning – A Stepping Stone for Success
Foundation Learning offers Entry Level to Level 1 programmes designed to help young people build the essential skills they need before moving on to higher-level study, training, or employment. It provides a safe, supported, confidence-building next step—perfect for young people who need more time to develop academically, socially, or emotionally before taking on higher-level courses.
Who Is It For?
Students working below GCSE level
Young people with SEND, including those with EHCPs
Learners who need a more supported and practical approach
Students who would benefit from building confidence before progressing
What Does It Include?
Vocational Skills - Hands-on tasters in areas like catering, digital media, construction, sports, hair & beauty, motor vehicle, and more.
Functional Skills - Practical English and Maths taught at the student’s level (Entry Level–Level 1).
Personal & Social Development - Independence skills, communication, teamwork, travel training, and preparing-for-adulthood goals.
Where Can It Lead?
Level 1 or Level 2 courses
Supported Internships
Traineeships (where available)
Employment or work placements
Continued foundation programmes
Foundation Learning – The Local Picture
Bracknell & Wokingham College
Business
Construction (TBC)
Creative crafts
ESOL
Health and childcare
Hospitality and catering
Media
Sports and public services
Windsor Forest Group
Entry Level 2 Pathway Towards Independence, Learning and Employability
Entry 2 Award in Life Skills for Independence
Entry 3 Award in Personal & Social Skills
Level 1 Award in Progression
Uxbridge College
BTEC Entry 1 & 2 Certificate in Pre-Vocational Study
BTEC Entry 2 Certificate in Pre-Vocational Study
BTEC Entry 3 Ex Certificate in Vocational Study
C&G Entry 3 Certificate in Intro to Hospitality
C&G Entry 3 Certificate Intro to Hair/Beauty Sector
OCNLR Entry 2 Certificate in Skills for Independence and Employability
OCNLR Entry 3 Certificate in Progression for Retail
BTEC Level 1 Diploma in Vocational Studies
C&G Level 1 Certificate in Employability Skills
OCNLR Level 2 Certificate in Skills for Professions in Business, Administration and Finance
Local 16+ & 18+ Options
Students in Berkshire have access to a wide range of post-16 and post-18 options that support their progression into further education, training, and employment. After age 16, young people can choose from local sixth forms, further education colleges, apprenticeships, and specialist training providers that offer both academic and vocational pathways. Post-18, students can continue their studies through universities, higher and degree apprenticeships, or professional training routes available within the region and beyond.
LOCAL OPTIONS 16+
Local Sixth Forms attached to mainstream schools
Supported Internship providers (AfC)
Additional Resources
If you are unsure what to do next for your child with SEND, please contact us — we are here to help and will talk you through the next steps. contact us.
If engaging with Young People is something you would like to do you may also like to sponsor some of the projects we run or donate equipment or funds. We offer a variety of sponsorship methods to suit your budget, please contact us to find out more or donate via our Get Involved page.