Government’s plan for post-16 education and skills outlined in white paper
2 mins read
Tuesday 28 October 2025
Last week the government released its long-awaited white paper on post-16 education and skills in England.
The paper is broad in its ambition to reform further education. This is most notable in the introduction of new Vocational Qualifications (V Levels); qualifications at level 2; and reformed English and Maths at level 1, as well as the introduction of a skills passport
The government states that it is taking action to increase support and outcomes for learners with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) in post-16 provision. Dame Christine Lenehan, the department’s strategic advisor for SEND, is helping to facilitate these reforms.
The main headlines relating to post-16 students with SEND include:
- The government will invest up to £12 million for supported internships alongside funding expert advice via free one-to-one consultation for all learners with SEND.
- Mental Health Support Teams will be expanded to support learners most at risk of becoming not in education or employment.
- The white paper does not provide detailed policies on transport for SEND learners. It does acknowledge the importance of supporting learners with SEND to access education and training. This includes considering the provision of transport assistance to ensure that these learners can participate fully in post-16 education and training.
