After moving from mainstream to an SEN school at the end of Year 9, Phoenix settled well and remained at that school until he finished in Year 11.
At that point, his family faced a daunting challenge finding an education setting that could truly meet his needs. Phoenix is academically very able, had two GCSE and 3 BTECHs and, at that time, had aspirations to study media, but also had needs that required tailored support.
A mainstream college was decided upon with support. However, a number of challenges relating to mainstream college could not be overcome, and it was decided that a specialist FE (further education) setting was needed instead. Following the bad experience with the mainstream setting, Phoenix decided media wasn’t for him and now wants to have a career in technical theatre.
We spoke with Phoenix’s mum, Gail, about their journey from mainstream to specialist FE, the challenges along the way, and why specialist provision matters.
Challenges Before Joining Bridge College
Phoenix’s experience in mainstream education was rigid and inflexible. Despite his abilities, the local mainstream setting insisted on enrolling him on a Level 1 course and repeatedly said, “As a mainstream college, our expectation is….”
They eventually admitted they couldn’t provide the 1:1 support Phoenix needed. With only two SEN colleges in the city, options were limited. Phoenix’s mum recalls:
“We wanted a setting that believed in Phoenix’s potential. Bridge College stood out immediately. They said: ‘We believe we can meet their needs.’ That gave us hope.”
Support That Made a Difference
From the very first multidisciplinary meeting, the family felt reassured:
“All key staff were in one room, answering Phoenix’s questions. Within an hour, we had a placement offer.”
Bridge College tailored the curriculum to Phoenix’s needs, offering flexibility and variety. His programme includes active roles around college, therapy provision like hydrotherapy and rebound, and a strong focus on inclusion.
“Whenever barriers arise, staff work with us to make changes. That flexibility is crucial.”
How Phoenix Has Changed
Since joining Bridge, Phoenix has grown in confidence, emotional regulation, and social engagement.
He loves banter, has a great sense of humour, and feels safe sharing his opinions.”
What Makes Bridge Different
- Staff with drive and passion, who truly understand young people and create a safe space for expression.
- Flexibility in curriculum and support.
- On-site therapies such as hydrotherapy, rebound.
“Having therapy within college is amazing. Phoenix has rebound, hydrotherapy, psychological support – all on site. Not all provisions have these facilities.”
Support for Families
For Gail, specialist FE means having a voice and being part of a supportive community.
“The parent-carer forum is invaluable. It helps us share strategies, network, and feel less isolated.”
Why Specialist FE Matters
Specialist colleges make young people feel valued and supported, with health needs integrated into education. At Bridge College, Phoenix has seen peers who were previously disengaged and now thrive.
Specialist FE gives families a voice and offers flexibility that mainstream cannot.”
Message to Decision-Makers
“Don’t cut services, expand them. Many young people miss out because there isn’t enough provision. Make sure young people don’t leave college without a placement.
We need more pathways with stretch and challenge, better transition planning, and supported internships that match aspirations-not just entry-level roles. Varied and wider options must be available.”
Specialist FE transforms lives. Phoenix’s story is proof that when education fits around the learner-not the other way around-young people can thrive.
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