This DfE analysis looks at pupils who were age 16 to 17 in 2016 and their outcomes at age 19 to 20 in 2019. The report explores early adult outcomes across a range of areas including mental health and post-16 attainment and labour market outcomes.
The findings replicate much of the existing research on the characteristics associated with young people who have SEN and their outcomes.
There is some tentative evidence to suggest a possible protective element of having been in a special school (SEN School) for those with the highest levels of support needs.
The findings indicate that in contrast to other forms of SEN provision, young people in SEN Schools are no more likely to report experiencing bullying than those with no identified SEN.
Young people in SEN Schools also report greater happiness than those in the No SEN group and no differences in relation to feeling lonely. Those with statements in mainstream provision are more likely to have been bullied in school, and to experience loneliness and lower life satisfaction in early adulthood.