Positive Steps into Adulthood

Progressing into further education can be a daunting prospect for young people, but it needn’t be. Moira has compiled some information for carers and post-16 young people, to help take the confusion out of further education, training and employment.

Post 16 Options: – Education

Depending on the qualifications you already have, you can study for the following qualifications at your school Sixth Form or a College

 QUALIFICATION LEVELS
Level 1 – GCSE (1-3), NVQ, FS
Level 2 – GCSE (4-9), BTEC, NVQ
Level 3 – A’ level, BTEC, Access to HE

Advantages of going to a College:

1. Wide range of vocational and academic courses at various levels
2. New subjects that may not be offered at school
3. New environment and a chance to meet new people
4. Apprenticeships mean you can earn money while you learn

NOTE: College places for popular subject areas and vocational/ trades courses fill up very quickly, so it is a good idea to apply as early as possible to ensure you get an offer and don’t end up on a waiting list. Now is a great time to apply.  All colleges require online applications.  They are free and you can apply to as many colleges/ courses as you like.

Advantages of staying at school Sixth Form:

1. Familiar staff and students
2. Usually a mix of A’ levels and BTEC on offer
3. Leadership options possibleNOTE: Your school will give you support and guidance about staying on at your current sixth form.  They will discuss subject choices with you and minimum grade requirements for your chosen subjects.  If you want to move schools to attend sixth form elsewhere, you will need to look at the school website and follow the sixth form application instructions for external students. Grammar schools will have high entry requirements including a GCSE grade 7 or above in the A level subjects you want to study.  Most other schools usually require five GCSEs at grade 4 and above.Post 16 Options: – Training & Employment
   If you would prefer to learn on the job you have the option to apply for a traineeship, apprenticeship, internship or other school leaver schemes.

   For more detailed information on these, see: https://nationalcareers.service.gov.uk/careers-advice/career-choices-at-16

   Apprenticeships through a college:
   Look at the local college websites for available apprenticeships.  These will include live offers of roles in local companies such as construction, hairdressing, hospitality, administration etc.

   Here is an example from a local college: https://stcg.ac.uk/apprenticeships

   Local Authority Apprenticeships:
   Look at the job listings on at your local authority website and search for apprenticeships.  These are likely to be roles in administration, finance, HR, marketing, library services etc.

   Here is the Sutton Local Authority website which can be filtered by job type including Apprenticeships: https://suttonjobs.engageats.co.uk/

   Part-time Jobs:
   Having a part-time job not only gives you an income but also valuable experience in teamwork, initiative, leadership and time-management, it can also be a great way to meet new people.

• There are some great temporary roles working for Census 2021 in most areas of the UK – https://www.censusjobs.co.uk/search-for-a-job/
• There are also currently part-time jobs available throughout the UK at Covid 19 Testing Centres.