Connexions is a confidential advice and support service which works with young people who have special needs from 13-25 years old. Personal Advisors offer one to one advice and support on a wide range of lifestyle issues including careers, education, training, employment, health and personal development opportunities in schools, colleges, Connexions Centres, youth clubs and other venues. Connexions can help guide young people through the important choices they will make at school like choosing which subjects to study, work experience opportunities and the transition from school to further and higher education, training or employment.

Currently, all young people with a statement of SEN or EHC Plan should have a Transition Plan written at their Year 9* Annual Review meeting. From Year 9 onwards, the aim of the annual review is not only to review the young person’s statement or EHC Plan, but also to update the Transition Plan. This will happen every year until they leave school. A Connexions Personal Advisor can provide advice and support to the young person and their family during the Transition Planning process. More information about ‘Moving Forward’ after school can be found on the Connexions Tyne and Wear website.
*Young people who started Year 9 in September 2010 will be expected to remain in some form of learning until they are 17. Young people who started Year 9 in September 2011 or after will remain in learning until they are 18. This does not just mean staying in school - young people could:
• Attend a college
• Start a course of work-based learning
• Get a job
• Do voluntary work
• Be supported by Social Services/Social Care and health/Children’s Service