Choices, inspire, success: how Hartlepool College is supporting NEETs

At Hartlepool College, the SEND and Foundation School plays a central role in supporting learners who are at risk of becoming not in employment, education or training (NEET). The school offers a range of programmes, including Choices and Inspire, working with school staff, pastoral teams, and external support services to provide tailored pathways, early intervention, and sustained support. 

Learners at risk of becoming NEET are identified at the earliest possible stage, often during transition from school or through initial assessment and induction processes. Key indicators include low prior attainment, poor attendance history, social or emotional barriers, and identified SEND needs. Tutors and learning support assistants then work identify individual learner needs and provide structured interventions which then ensures learners receive both academic and personal development support, enabling them to engage effectively with their education.  

As well as working with college students, Hartlepool College runs a learning pathway for 14 to 16-year-olds, focusing on re-engaging young people who have been permanently excluded (PEX), offering them a structured and supportive pathway back into education. Students benefit from tailored learning approaches, targeted pastoral support, and strong multi-agency collaboration, opportunities for work experience, internships, internal employment and access to skills competitions. The learning pathway is helping to rebuild confidence, restore routines, and open up new opportunities for progression. As referrals continue to rise, it is becoming a key alternative provision route for schools seeking meaningful outcomes for some of their most vulnerable learners.

There is clear evidence of sustainable and measurable impact. Specifically, within the Choices programme, of the 25 learners enrolled, 15 have identified progression routes, with three learners already successfully moving into employment within the college. Another two learners have secured an internship, while two have progressed to another college, demonstrating positive transitions beyond the programme. The remaining learners are being actively supported to secure appropriate next steps, reflecting a continued commitment to progression for all.  Additionally, the school introduced a Choices (Health) element this academic year and from the eight learners enrolled, five will progress into the health vocational within the college and three are undecided on their routes, again the college are supporting them with their choices. 

Within the Inspire programme, all 11 learners are expected to progress internally onto a range of vocational courses. This 100% progression rate highlights strong preparation for further study and the effectiveness of the programme in supporting learners to remain in education.  In addition to education and employment outcomes, there is also evidence of improved personal development and wellbeing. Learners demonstrate increased confidence, improved social interaction and greater readiness for independent living and work-related environments. These outcomes, while more qualitative, are consistently observed through learner reviews and staff feedback and contribute to long-term sustainability.

The overarching aim at Hartlepool is to transform lives by re-engaging learners in education and equipping them with the skills, confidence, and resilience needed for future success.