All our students can remain at Mapledown until they are 19. They take part in a range of activities to ensure that they are well informed and hence able to play an active part in determining their future pathways post-school. As with all areas of learning within the school, these activities are presented to pupils on an individual basis, when appropriate, and take into account their abilities and needs. The school ensures that every young person has the opportunity to access a range of independent advice and guidance to help them to understand their choices when they first reach 14, 16 and then 18 years of age. Discussions around ‘next steps’ begins at the Year Nine Annual Review.

Careers Education and Guidance is promoted through class learning supported by work related activities that arise across the school and with local partners.

We have well-established links between the school and local further education colleges, as well as developing links with local providers.

A careers adviser with a specialism in learning disabilities provides guidance for students from Year 8 onwards and supports their transition into further education, training or provides advice on supported internships or employment according to their individual circumstances, and if appropriate.

Pre-vocational and work related learning are established across the whole school curriculum. Work experience placements may be offered to students from Year 12 onwards, depending on the needs of the students and the opportunities that become available.