Skip to content
30 April 2026

Investigation

Seeking more than a sticking plaster for hospitalised teens

Seriously ill 16 to 18-year-olds could gain a legal right to hospital education support under new proposals. But leaders warn funding gaps, council deficits and inflexible college admissions could still leave learners facing a post-16 cliff edge. Anviksha Patel investigates

Anviksha Patel

More from this author
7 min read
|

Listen to this story

Members can listen to an AI-generated audio version of this article.

1.0x

Audio narration uses an AI-generated voice.

0:00 0:00

For over a decade, teenagers too sick to attend classes have been left without guaranteed education support after age 16 due to a long-standing gap in hospital education law.

A rule that provides schooling for the long-term sick up to age 16 was left outdated when from 2015 teenagers had to remain in education or training until 18.

The anomaly has left hospital school leaders using their own funds and charity partnerships to help seriously ill young people pursue FE courses.

Become a member for unlimited access to FE Week

subscribe

Our members enjoy early access to exclusive content and in-depth articles before anyone else. Get expert journalism on FE and skills, experience fewer ads, and unlock a growing range of member benefits.

Share

No Comments

Featured jobs from FE Week jobs / Schools Week jobs

Browse more news