What is changing this year
You are preparing for exams. If you need adjustments in exams, they must reflect your normal way of working and be agreed early. Health and social care planning continues. Independence skills keep growing.
What to do this year
- Plan exam access arrangements early (extra time, assistive tech, small room) with your SENCO or exams officer.
- Keep health checks and care plans up to date; note changes and questions.
- Practice travel (routes, timetables, safety) and money skills (budgeting, saving).
Education and planning
Plan any adjustments for exams now. Access arrangements must match your normal classroom practice. They must be in place from the start of your course. Agreeing them early avoids stress later. Talk to your SENCO or exams officer and practise using them in lessons.
Find more information on Exam help for SEND.
You should be receiving independent and impartial careers guidance from Year 7 through to Year 13 and up to aged 25 if you have an EHC plan. If you have special educational needs or disabilities, your careers guidance should be tailored to your individual needs, but the core expectations stay the same. Activities like workplace insights, employer encounters, and Labour Market Information should be adapted for you – not left out. Placements in year 10 and 11 should allow you to experience a real working environment.
Find more information on Careers education.
Health and wellbeing
Small habits keep you well. Keep appointment letters, write down what was agreed, and ask for information in a format you understand. Bring a list of questions and check back what you heard.
Find more tips on the first step forward in the Somerset NHS transitions guide.
Social care and support
Support should grow with you. If your needs change, it is okay to adjust how help is provided.
Money and independence
Everyday independence builds quietly. Practice budgeting for weekly costs and saving for something you want.
Find more information on managing your finances.
Transport and travel
Travel skills open doors to college, work and friends. Consider Independent Travel Training if you want confidence on buses or trains.
Housing and future living
Keep talking about the future. Note what matters to you about where you live – near friends, near work or college, quiet area, good transport.