Post-16

At Post 16, we empower  our students to thrive as confident, independent individuals. Our provision is tailored to each learner’s unique strengths, interests, and needs, with a focus on developing real-world skills, personal growth, and preparation for adulthood. Through a nurturing, structured, and inclusive environment, we support our students in achieving meaningful outcomes—whether that’s further education, supported employment, or a fulfilling role in their community

Our Post-16 provision supports students aged 16–19 as they prepare for life beyond Holbrook. We offer personalised learning pathways tailored to each young person’s strengths, interests, and aspirations.

All students progressing into Post-16 will:

  • Have a personalised Futures plan guided by a Careers Adviser
  • Identify a provisional post-Holbrook destination through shared feedback
  • Work towards relevant, accredited qualifications

Our curriculum is centred around the four Preparation for Adulthood areas:

  • Friends & Community
  • Employment
  • Independent Living
  • Good Health

Students gain nationally recognised accreditation through ASDAN and have access to further functional and vocational qualifications via Open Awards and AQA, including Essential Digital Skills, Animal Care, and Travel Training.

With a strong emphasis on independence and community access, we deliver a rich and supportive environment that helps students build confidence, develop practical life skills, and work towards meaningful adult outcomes. Our curriculum is reviewed annually to reflect the unique needs of each cohort and to ensure every student is equipped for a successful transition into adulthood.

Stream

The Stream Pathway offers a structured, student-led learning environment focused on developing life skills through choice-making and routine. Lessons are shaped by each student’s EHCP and the four Preparation for Adulthood areas, with a strong emphasis on Independent Living, Good Health, and Friends & Community. Students learn through continuous provision, supported by sensory-rich spaces and consistent routines, with increased opportunities to apply skills in real-world community settings.

River

The River Pathway supports students in developing key communication, independence, and life skills through exploration and connection-making. Guided by their EHCPs and the four Preparation for Adulthood areas, students engage in work-related learning, including workplace visits, employer talks, and enterprise activities. The ASDAN Realising Aspirations programme is embedded throughout, with opportunities to gain accreditation in areas aligned with students’ interests and future goals.

Ocean

The Ocean Pathway offers tailored study programmes focused on Preparation for Adulthood outcomes, guided by the ASDAN Realising Aspirations framework. Students build on Key Stage 4 learning with continued development of functional literacy and numeracy. The curriculum includes increased community access, work experience, enterprise projects, and preparation for employment and transition. Students work towards accreditation in courses aligned with their interests and future goals.

Accreditation

All Post 16 students work towards a nationally recognised accreditation.

There is a strong focus on developing skills for adulthood including: functional communication, literacy, numeracy, ICT, independence, employability, and life skills.

Learners are supported to achieve accreditation in areas linked to personal interest such Animal Care alongside accreditation in Travel Training and Functional Skills. Courses are closely aligned with each student’s EHCP outcomes, pathway and Futures plan.

Accreditation Results 2023-24

Careers and Work Experience

Post-16 students have access to a wide range of vocational and life skills opportunities tailored to their strengths, interests, and EHCP outcomes. Using platforms like Compass+ and personal Futures plans, we map meaningful work placements and work-related learning experiences that support personal development and preparation for adulthood.

Our careers programme follows the Gatsby Benchmarks and includes impartial guidance, college visits, open days, and enterprise activities. Careers and vocational progress are tracked through Seesaw and ASDAN Employment folders. By Year 14, we aim for all students to have a named destination and a clear, supported transition plan.

 

Holbrook Futures Programme

Quality in Careers Standard

Holbrook & The Gatsby Benchmarks

Impact

At Holbrook School for Autism, every step of the student journey is intentionally crafted to celebrate growth, independence, and personal achievement. The below case studies showcase how a personalised, evidence-informed curriculum—rooted in communication, emotional regulation, and life skills—leads to meaningful progress and transition for our learners.

Post-16: A Pathway to Independence and Success

Post-16: Building Skills, Friendships, and a Future

Post-16: Preparing for Adulthood through the Stream Curriculum

Additional Information

Destination Data

Leaving School - Opportunities and Pathways after Holbrook

Post 16 Transitions Policy

Post 16 Policy

Alumni Policy

Consent for Information Sharing After Leaving School

When you apply for employment, further education, or training, providers may contact Holbrook School for Autism to confirm your attendance dates and exam results.

Under UK GDPR, we require your consent to share this information.

We also like to follow up on how you’re doing after leaving Holbrook. While we are required to do this until age 16 under the Education and Skills Act 2008, we need your permission to continue beyond that and to share any information that identifies you.

Please complete and return the consent form to school, or email it to info@holbrookschoolforautism.co.uk

Post 16 and 18 Destinations Consent Form

Post 16 Reference Consent Form