How do I apply?
To join the Switch Now training programme there are no qualification requirements. Each potential co-worker at Switch Now will undergo a visit, initial assessments and complete taster sessions, to ensure the programme is right for them and that they are aware of the potential outcomes and expectations from them.
The cost depends on your circumstances. We may be able to help you to apply for grants or funding you may be eligible for. Typical routes are listed below. Please get in touch to enquire and obtain a registration form.
Educational Health Care Plan (EHCP)
Switch Now is a qualified post-16 education provider on the Cambridge County Council (CCC) Framework.
Through your Statutory Assessment Team caseworker (SAT), you will need to request them to explore an alternative provision because you feel Ordinarily Available Provisions (OAP) can not meet your needs. Switch Now would then go through a referral process with the Post-16 Alternative Education team with CCC. We will receive a copy of your Educational Health Care Plan (EHCP). We liaise with the Referral Team and the Statutory Assessment Team.
If a referral is successful, The paperwork will be reviewed by Switch Now and a meeting / visit will be arranged between relevant parties. After this, we will plan taster sessions to assess whether Switch Now can meet the individual’s needs.
Once the taster sessions have been completed, a local authorities panel decision will take place to confirm if Switch Now can meet the needs. If a placement offer is agreed, a funding application will be submitted to CCC panel by Switch Now where the final decision to attend will be made.
Switch Now can offer a 3 day full-time education programme or part-time to link with other providers. This can be tailored to the individual’s needs.
If the Local Authority panel decision is successful, then Switch Now will confirm the programme start date.
Social Care (LDP, AAT, Direct Payments)
We will send out a registration form and arrange a meeting / visit between relevant parties.
After the meeting / visit has taken place, if Switch Now could meet the young person’s needs, planned taster sessions and assessments will be arranged.
Once the taster sessions have been competed, a social worker or the Adult & Autism Team would be involved to apply for funding.
If funding is agreed a start date will be confirmed.
Other routes
Please make contact with us and we will try and signpost you to the support you need.
