KIT 2: School management strategies for lasting policies in support of the learners' leaving

Kit 2 embeds learner transition in the daily work of the school by knitting policy, partnerships and pedagogy into one repeatable process. Whereas Kit 1 supports each young person individually, Kit 2 gives senior leaders a firm policy anchor, equips the Transition Coordinator with live registers of inclusive employers and external support agencies, and provides staff with a ready-to-teach workshop series for final-year pupils. The package responds to EU findings that learners with special educational needs and disabilities still leave education without the coherent assistance mainstream legislation envisages. It therefore offers three low-cost management tools and a learner-centred programme that slot neatly into existing quality-assurance cycles. Follow the four stages in order—policy adoption, employer register, support-organisation register and transition workshops. Each stage activates the next, turning commitment on paper into a dependable bridge from classroom learning to paid employment.

First secure commitment from the school leadership team by adopting the School Transition Policy as an official school policy document. The policy sets out the school’s legal and moral duty to prepare every learner—particularly those with specific educational needs—for adulthood and employment. It appoints a named Transition Coordinator, establishes annual review points and links Kits 1 – 3 into one coherent strategy. Once ratified by the governing body, circulate a one-page briefing so that all staff understand their role.

With the policy in place, the Transition Coordinator curates a dynamic list of local employers who are willing to offer work-placements, internships or first jobs to learners with additional needs. Each entry records sector, contact person, accessibility arrangements and placement history. Colour-coding (green = active, amber = prospect, red = inactive) allows tutors to spot opportunities quickly. Review and refresh the register every term so it remains a living resource.

Parallel to the employer list, maintain a directory of agencies that can provide wrap-around assistance—benefits advice, housing guidance, travel training, and mental-health support. Include referral routes and eligibility notes so that mentors can signpost families without delay. Invite these organisations to a twice-yearly breakfast briefing to strengthen relationships and ensure consistent practice.

The workshop series translates policy into pupil experience. Designed for small groups in their final school year, the 30-hour programme covers job-search techniques, interview skills, time-management, workplace relationships, financial literacy and independent living. External speakers drawn from both registers make the content authentic, while tutors capture each learner’s goals and barriers for their individual plan