Newry Scheme Moves 11 SEN Graduates Into Work or Training
Updated
Updated · BBC.com · Jun 25
Newry Scheme Moves 11 SEN Graduates Into Work or Training
1 articles · Updated · BBC.com · Jun 25
Summary
Eleven special educational needs students from St Paul's High in County Armagh completed the An Droichead scheme, with all progressing into training or work and three already in part-time jobs.
The programme was created by the school and Newry-based Bolster Community to tackle the post-school "cliff edge" in Northern Ireland, where no mandatory support exists to help SEN pupils move into further education, training or employment.
Funded by the Department for the Economy, it combined qualifications, mentoring, travel support and local work placements, with students spending three days at employers and two days in school.
Parents and organisers said the tailored support built confidence and clarified career goals, while employers offered placements in retail, hospitality, plumbing, car mechanics, graphic design and schools.
The scheme addresses a wider regional problem: Northern Ireland has the UK's lowest disability employment rate, underscoring the gap facing disabled school-leavers.
Beyond small victories, can pilot programs like 'An Droichead' genuinely fix the systemic disability employment crisis?
As the world pushes for apprenticeships, are employers truly prepared for the realities of a neurodiverse workforce?
An Droichead Pilot: Transforming Transitions for SEN Graduates in Northern Ireland’s Workforce
Overview
An Droichead is a new scheme designed to help teenagers with special educational needs (SEN) in Northern Ireland avoid the sudden loss of support, known as the 'cliff-edge,' when leaving school. In June 2026, the first group of students from St Paul's High School graduated from the program, successfully taking their first steps into work. This milestone brought great pride to their parents and showed how An Droichead bridges the gap between education and employment. By offering tailored support, the scheme helps SEN graduates transition smoothly into jobs or further training, addressing a critical challenge in their lives.