South West London and St George’s Mental Health NHS Trust has announced it will become the new host for Choices College from 1 August 2026, marking a significant step in strengthening long‑term support for young people with special educational needs and disabilities.
Choices College – a national specialist college – provides personalised education and supported internships for 16–24‑year‑olds with SEND. Its blended model of real‑world work placements, accredited qualifications in English, maths and employability skills helps around 200 learners each year build confidence, independence and pathways into sustainable employment. The college works with NHS services, local authorities and a network of over 120 employer partners.
SWLSTG was selected following a strategic review which identified the college’s need for a host organisation capable of supporting its long‑term development. The Trust was chosen due to its strong alignment with Choices College’s values and its commitment to improving access to education and employment for disabled and autistic young people.
The Trust also brings a proven track record in innovative, partnership‑based approaches to improving care, outcomes and opportunities for people with mental health conditions – a natural complement to the college’s mission.
Choices College will join a suite of established SWLSTG programmes that share its ethos of empowerment through learning, including:
- Recovery College – offering education‑based mental health support
- A specialist CAMHS service for deaf young people
- Programmes supporting placements and employment transitions for mental health patients
- A major new mental health care facility and Social and Emotional Mental Health School in Richmond, created in partnership with the Department for Education
SWLSTG also maintains a strong focus on training, apprenticeships and lifelong learning for staff, service users, carers and local communities.
Ian Garlington, SWLSTG’s Better Communities Programme Director, said:
“We are delighted to welcome Choices College to our Trust. Supporting young people with special educational needs and disabilities into meaningful education and employment strongly reflects our values and commitment to inclusivity, reducing stigma, and creating healthier and happier communities.
“Through this partnership we will support the next stage of the college’s journey, so it can continue to provide high-quality education and specialised internships, while exploring how we can build on its success for future learners. This will include working together to enhance our joint offer to both Trust patients and students at Choices College, to further the impact of both organisations.”
Choices College is currently hosted by NHS England. The transition to SWLSTG will take place throughout 2026, with learners and staff continuing their education and placements as planned, ensuring continuity of provision and support.
The Trust says hosting the college will strengthen opportunities for young people with SEND and support future innovation in inclusive, employment‑focused education.
Image credit: South West London and St George’s Mental Health NHS Trust
