Point of view: Empowering students

Sibel Meral on the importance of voice, experience and confidence.

The journey to adulthood is about more than just academic qualifications. It’s about confidence, self-advocacy and real-world readiness. By ensuring our students have a voice in their future, experience real workplaces and engage with potential colleges, we empower them to make informed choices. I’ve seen at first hand the transformative impact of career experiences and student-led decision-making. For students with special educational needs, these opportunities are not just beneficial—they are essential.

People with special educational needs can face considerable challenges when it comes to securing employment. The employment rate for those with learning disabilities was worryingly low at just one in twenty. However, research shows that with the right support, young people with SEN can have more successful employment outcomes. Career pathways that are specifically tailored to their needs, along with high-quality careers guidance, can make a significant difference. When students receive proper guidance in school, it increases their chances of staying in education, securing employment, or entering training. One particularly impactful approach is supported internships—work-based programs for young people with an EHCP. These internships have been shown to help young people with learning disabilities gain the skills and confidence they need to succeed in the workplace.

Too often, decisions about a young person’s future are made for them rather than with them. But students have aspirations, strengths and preferences that deserve to be heard. Ensuring they have a say in their own education, career pathways and future choices fosters a sense of ownership and self-worth. We actively encourage our students to express their interests and opinions and ensure we create spaces where their voices matter. Listening to our students helps us tailor experiences that align with their goals, making their journey into adulthood smoother and more meaningful.

Career insight days
Traditional careers events often focus on mainstream pathways that may not feel accessible or relevant to our students. That’s why we prioritise career days in environments where they can truly see themselves working. We ensure to listen to students and where their interests lie. Our students have expressed interest in visits from chefs, artists, barbers and some have requested exposure to careers in finance, banking and football. We’ve been fortunate to have already been invited to experience insight days at BNP Paribas, Chelsea Football Club, Apple and City of Westminster Council. Collaborations like these are invaluable, not only in broadening our students’ horizons, but also in showing them that inclusive workplaces do exist. Seeing professionals who understand and accommodate diverse needs helps our students believe that a fulfilling career is within their reach.

College visits
Further education can be a daunting prospect for any young person, but for our students, the transition can feel overwhelming. This is why college visits are such a crucial part of our Preparation for Adulthood program. Experiencing a new environment first-hand helps students visualise themselves in that setting—and that sense of familiarity can make all the difference. Seeing the classrooms, meeting staff and getting a feel for daily life removes much of the anxiety that can come with the unknown. For parents, too, these visits provide reassurance and help them understand the support available for their child’s next steps.