Currently an apprentice or considering one? Here’s the support you can get if you have a learning difficulty or disability.
Extra support for apprentices with SEND
Reasonable adjustments
If you have a disability, learning difficulty, or a physical or mental health condition, you can get extra support during an apprenticeship.
Employers and training providers must provide reasonable adjustments that reduce any barriers – it’s the law! Some examples of reasonable adjustments include:
- Specialist equipment that helps you work
- Extra time for study, work or exams
- Interpreters, support workers, or job coaches
English and math requirements
Apprentices are required to achieve their English and math qualifications to be able to complete the apprenticeship. If you have a learning difficulty or disability that means you can’t achieve this qualification, you might be able to complete a qualification in functional skills instead.
As you start your apprenticeship, your training provider will identify whether you need to get this qualification, and what support you need for this.
Inclusive apprenticeships
Inclusive apprenticeships are an accessible programme for people with learning difficulties and disabilities.
They are designed for those with an EHC Plan, Learning Disability Assessment (LDA), or a Statement of Educational Needs (SEN).
It’ll help you find an apprenticeship that’s right for your skills and interests, and you’ll work with a disability-confident employer who can support you to grow.
UK support and services for apprentices with SEND
Access to Work is a government scheme that provides grants to fund any reasonable adjustments you might need. You can apply for support if you have a disability, health condition, or mental health condition.
Disability Rights UK provides online support and advice about apprenticeships and work.
Disabled Apprentice Network (DAN) connects current and graduated apprentices together to talk about apprenticeships and their experiences. This could be a great opportunity to join an apprenticeship community once you’ve started your apprenticeship.
Do you have to disclose your learning difficulty or disability?
You don’t have to tell your employer or training provider about your learning difficulty or disability if you don’t want to. However, it’s also important to remember that you won’t get the support you need if they don’t know.
Want to find out more?
Explore whether apprenticeships are the right choice for you and take your next steps with this selection of content:
