Worcestershire’s Life Beyond School Show opens doors for young people with SEND

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Sixways Stadium played host to a different kind of victory this week (Tuesday 7 October), as more than 50 employers, colleges and training providers came together for the Life Beyond School Inclusive Show.

The inspiring event encouraged young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) to ‘try’ new opportunities, explore their options, and take confident steps towards their future in learning, work, and beyond.

Following the Worcester Warriors win at the weekend, their home stadium played host to the annual event from Worcestershire County Council’s Skills & Employability Service. School students from Years 9 to 13, and those aged up to 25 with an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) visited the event to explore the wide range of support and opportunities available locally.

Life Beyond School has become one of Worcestershire’s most important SEND-focused careers events, providing a positive, welcoming environment where young people can meet employers, discover vocational routes, and gain insight into the world of work.

Exhibitors, including West Mercia Police, Mencap, Specsavers,  Ringway, Ormerod Rutter, Barclays, GLP Training, Sanctuary, and Muller, showcased inclusive pathways and real employment opportunities available across the county.

Judy Gibbs, Head of Skills and Employability for Worcestershire County Council, said: "Life Beyond School is about giving every young person the chance to see what’s possible. Worcestershire’s strength lies in its diversity, both in its people and its opportunities. By bringing together inclusive employers, training providers and support organisations, we’re helping to ensure that every young person with SEND is supported to take their next step with confidence.

We are proud to host careers, training, skills and learning events across the year through Careers Worcestershire, helping to create Worcestershire’s future workforce. Today’s successful event highlights there truly is a place for everyone to contribute, achieve and succeed within our county’s growing workforce."

The Life Beyond School Inclusive Show forms part of Worcestershire County Council’s wider Skills & Employability Service.

This brings together Adult Learning, Careers Worcs 16-24, Young Adult Learning, Early Careers, SENDIASS, Think Skills, Worcestershire Apprenticeships, Skills Bootcamps, and Connect to Work. Working with partner organisations their aim is to create lifelong opportunities for residents across the county and support local businesses with workforce planning.

To learn more about Worcestershire’s Skills & Employability programmes, visit www.worcestershire.gov.uk/skills.