Can provision be extended in a school setting for those aged 19 and over?

Where a local authority (LA) decides that a young person would be best served by remaining in a school setting after they have turned 19 years of age, it can apply for a relaxation of the normal rules via the Education and Skills Funding Agency. 

Approval must be given by the Secretary of State to allow a young person aged 19 or over to remain at a school.

The government states that this may be necessary in “exceptional circumstances”. However, we have been advised previously that the process can be relatively straightforward and LAs may want to consider whether such application is necessary in light of individual students’ circumstances. 

Remember that considerations for children and young people with SEND include whether they may need more time to complete their studies.