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Written question asked by Juliet Campbell (Labour) on Tuesday, 8 September 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 10 September 2026. It was answered by Josh MacAlister (Labour) on Tuesday, 6 October 2026 on behalf of the Department for Education.

Unpaid Work: Dyslexia

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Education, what steps her Department is taking to increase access to work experience, supported internships and pre-apprenticeship provision for young people with dyslexia.

Answer

The department is committed to ensuring that young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), including dyslexia, can access high-quality post-16 education and progress into employment, apprenticeships or further study. Providers are expected to make reasonable adjustments and provide tailored support so learners can participate in study and work-related learning.

The department wants every young person to benefit from high-quality, inclusive work experience during secondary education. We are working with the Careers & Enterprise Company and Careers Hubs to help secondary schools and specialist settings increase workplace experiences, including through employer brokerage and SEND-focused resources. In addition, through Jobcentre Plus, eligible young people can access voluntary work experience opportunities, tailored where appropriate to reflect individual needs and circumstances.

Supported internships offer 16 to 24-year-olds with an Education, Health and Care (EHC) plan a structured work-based study programme, substantial placement and job coach support. In 2026/27, we are testing this model for young people without an EHC plan, backed by up to £9 million.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
28071
Session
2026-27
Subjects
Dyslexia Young people Unpaid work
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk