A teenager who once felt anxious about leaving her specialist school is now thriving at Exeter College; an outcome her mother says “couldn’t have gone better,” thanks to early guidance from Devon County Council’s Post-16 Learning Participation Team.
The pupil, who attended Ellen Tinkham School in Exeter, initially struggled with the idea of what would come next after school.
Career Development Consultant, Sarah Baker recalls:
“She was very anxious about leaving school. She didn’t understand the options available and couldn’t picture her future.”
Her mum shared the same fears, worried about how her daughter might cope outside a specialist environment.
The turning point came in Year 9, when Sarah first contacted the family to explain the support available.
The learner’s mum later described that moment as crucial, saying she finally “felt reassured that we weren’t facing this transition alone”.
As part of the council’s support, the learner had a careers meeting in Year 10 to explore aspirations for the future, college options and available courses. She was impressed by Exeter College and signed up for an open event.
After attending the college open event, the learner returned for another careers meeting. This time she was excited about the future.
She told Sarah that she was “excited about the possibility” of joining the college, speaking warmly about “the staff and the atmosphere”.
Thanks to the guidance and reassurance she received, the learner applied with confidence and secured a place at Exeter College.
Sarah contacted the pupil’s mum to see how the first term was going. Mum said that her daughter was “doing amazingly well,” had “made new friends”, “loved the staff,” and was “thriving” in her new environment.
The transition “couldn’t have gone better,” said her mum.
Sarah believes the success highlights the vital role of early intervention in supporting a smooth transition from a specialist school to mainstream college.
Several key factors contributed, including timely support – early guidance gave the learner time to explore options at a comfortable pace; forward planning – a structured transition plan ensured she was fully supported; empowerment through choice – encouraging ownership of decisions helped her feel heard and in control of her future; collaborative support – school staff worked closely with the Post-16 Learning Participation Team to provide consistent support; and welcoming environment – Exeter College provided a nurturing setting aligned with the her needs and aspirations .
Now, instead of worrying about her future, this learner is embracing it with confidence and excitement. Her journey shows how thoughtful planning and the right guidance can turn a challenging transition into an opportunity for growth and success.