Protecting Post-19 Education for Young People with SEND

For Homefield College, this is more than a policy discussion – it is about safeguarding our students’ futures.

Many young people with SEND need longer than their peers to finish qualifications, prepare for employment and build everyday independence.
Under the Children and Families Act 2014, anyone with an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) can continue in publicly funded education up to age 25 if they are still working towards their outcomes and need additional support.

Across England, around 37,000 young people aged 20+ are currently making use of this right. Their progress shows what’s possible when the system gives them time and tailored support.

Recent proposals from Policy Exchange to end EHCPs at 18 would effectively remove the legal right to continue education.

The impact would be profound:

Short-term savings would quickly turn into higher long-term costs for society.

Homefield College has written to MPs representing our students’ home areas, urging them to speak up in Parliament today and defend the right to post-19 education.

We also encourage our wider community to:

Education is not one-size-fits-all. Every student deserves the time and support they need to thrive.

By protecting EHCPs up to age 25, we can secure brighter futures and stronger, more inclusive communities.