In most cases, students can find a suitable course at a local educational provider. However, if a student has very complex needs, they might need to consider an Independent Specialist Placement (ISP) that could be further away. To access an ISP, the student must have an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), and the Local Authority will only fund an ISP after all local options have been exhausted. It's important to note that the Local Authority cannot agree to place a student at an ISP if an equivalent course or provision is available locally.
For young people seeking residential specialist college placements, the Local Authority will require evidence that the placement proposal is based on appropriate assessment and guidance, involving collaboration between relevant agencies, including adult social care and health.
For more information on special schools and colleges: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/independent-special-schools-and-colleges