Educational & Training Opportunities
The law requires all young people in England to continue in education or training until at least their 18th birthday
There are many options to choose from, the key is finding the right pathway for you. Entry requirements vary so always check the qualifications required and that the course is available at the right level for you
A-levels
Academic and test orientated
A-levels are taught and assessed very similarly to most GCSEs. They require a lot of classroom work, with test papers being used to indicate progress. Theory and research are big components of an A-level course. If you're unsure about a future career, A-levels are broad subjects which allow you to combine three or four different subjects. They provide a good foundation to apply for university or start work.
Popular A-level subjects include:
- English
- Maths
- Biology
- Art and design
- Psychology
- History
Vocational Courses (including Btecs)
Practical and course work orientated
Vocational courses focus on students gaining and practicing skills, with short projects being used to indicate progress. Vocational courses prepare you for specialisation in a particular career sector or related university degree course.
Popular Vocational subjects include:
- Health and social care
- Applied sciences
- Construction
- Multimedia
- Performing arts
- Sports
T-levels
Classroom work mixed with work placement
Practical and knowledge-based learning at a school or college, with on-the-job experience through an industry placement. They give students a real sense of what a career in their chosen field would be like. There will be written exams as well as skill showcases used to assess grades.
Popular T-Level subjects are:
- Construction
- Digital Production
- Healthcare Science
- Accounting
T-Levels are still evolving, here are some new subjects available from September 2023:
- Catering
- Hair and Beauty
- Legal Services
To see more about T-Levels:
Apprenticeships
Earn a wage and qualification at the same time
An apprenticeship is a real job where you earn a wage and work towards a qualification at the same time
Apprenticeship levels:
Intermediate (2) - GCSEAdvanced (3) - A levelHigher (4,5,6 and 7) - Foundation degree and aboveDegree (6 and 7) - Bachelor’s or master’s degree
For more info on Apprenticeships visit: Gov.uk/Apprenticeships
To search for apprenticeships visit: Apprenticeship Search
Supported Internships
Internships for young people with EHCP
Supported Internships help young people aged 16 – 24 who have an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) progress into employment with the support of a dedicated Work Coach.
Check out the videos below to find out more.
Everyone is different
Someone else's choices may not be the best fit for you. When choosing your post 16 options, keep in mind your long term aims and goals, what you like to study, how you like to learn and the skills and knowledge you wish to develop. You may also need to take into account your personal circumstances e.g. any additional support needs or other commitments/responsibilities.
Try to attend open evenings and information events, as these will help you make an informed decision. You can see when they are here:
Don't base your choices on:
- What your friends are doing
- What teachers you currently have
If you're still unsure, arrange an appointment with your school careers adviser
If you experience any challenges, such as not getting the right GCSE's or changing your mind about what you want to do, don’t panic help is available. Speak to your schools careers adviser, contact your college/6th Form or Stoke-on-Trent Young Persons Careers Advice service.