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24 April 2020
By Celia Buxton

COVID-19: Support and Guidance for Year 12 Students

We know that it has been incredibly difficult recently. COVID-19 (Coronavirus) has affected everyone and in these unprecedented times, things can seem unsettling, uncertain and confusing.

I would like to reassure you that The Education People are working tirelessly to provide young people with the support and guidance they need. We may not have all the answers but please be assured that we will continue to keep you updated as we find out more.

Year 12 Letter

The Education People have written to every young person in year 12 on a one-year course and those in employment/apprenticeships, or not in education, work, or training. 

View the letter to year 12 here

Stay in touch with us

Kent County Council is required to stay in touch with young people for two years after Year 11 and provide free support and advice. To do this, The Education People will contact you at regular interval. To find out how we do this, visit Kent County Council’s website.

We would really appreciate your time letting us know what your plans are for September by completing this September Guarantee online form. Please use the reference that was given to you on your letter or contact us (details below) to find out what your reference number is.

I have an Education Health Care Plan (EHCP)

If you’re uncertain about what you’re doing in September, your school/college should be able to assist you. In the first instance contact your tutor or the student support service. If necessary, they may contact the Local Authority’s Special Educational Needs Team. You can find the SEND team’s contact details here.

I haven’t applied for a place for the next academic year

It’s not too late to apply, as colleges and most schools are open for applications. Visit their websites to see whether they are still open for applications and remember to check entry requirements before you apply. It is always a good idea to have a backup plan in place. Please make sure you complete all work you are set by your current school/college (if applicable).

I don’t know what to do next/I would like some advice on my options for September

If you would like to explore your options, you can visit KentChoices for information about college, sixth form, employment and training.

If you would like advice and guidance on your options and you are currently in education, you should contact your school/college in the first instance.

If you are not currently in education, you can speak with the National Careers Service hotline on 0800 100 900 or you can book a telephone appointment with us via our Education and Careers support – Telephone booking system.

Please bear in mind that recruitment for a number of employers may be on hold due to COVID-19 and the way they recruit will may adapted, so you may not receive an immediate response.

I'm on a two-year course at a school or a college

If you started this course in September 2019, you should be returning to your school/college for September 2020 and they should be in regular contact with you. If you are concerned, talk to your tutor in the first instance. Please make sure that you complete all the work you are set.

I am on a one-year course at a school or college and don’t have a place for September yet

I have applied and haven’t heard anything. This is not unusual at this time of year; check the email account you put on your application. If there are no messages – do not worry – the school/college know that you have applied and will be in touch in due course. If you are concerned, you could visit the their website or send them an email. Please make sure you complete all work you are set by your school/college.

I know what I want to do but haven’t applied yet. It’s not too late to apply, as colleges and most schools are open for applications. Visit their websites to see whether they are still open for applications and check entry requirements before you apply. It is always a good idea to have a backup plan in place. Please make sure you complete all work you are set by your school/college.

I don’t know what I want to do yet / I want to do something different. If you need some advice, contact your school/college’s student support service. If following that you need further help, call the National Careers Service on 0800 100 900 or you can book a telephone appointment with us via our Education and Careers support – Telephone booking system.

I am waiting to hear from a new school or college

Check the email account you put on your application. If there are no messages – do not worry – the school/college know that you have applied and will be in touch in due course. If you are concerned, you could visit their website, send them an email or try telephoning.

I'm already working/in an apprenticeship

That’s great! If you are undertaking training, please stay in touch with your training provider. If you’re working, please keep updated by your employer. If you have been furloughed – you are still employed. Please complete this online form and should you wish to explore options for September, please do not hesitate to contact us on the details below.

I am not currently in work or education

Please complete this online form. If you have applied for something for September that is great! Please let us know by using the September Guarantee online form. If you’re yet to apply, it’s not too late – you can contact us on 03000 414 005 and speak to one of our friendly advisers who will be more than happy to help.

Contact us

The Education People are able to provide free impartial information, advice and guidance for young people so be sure to get in touch!