Post 16
Choosing the right path after GCSEs is a significant decision for students, and it's important to be well-informed about the options available.
Post-16 Career Options: Your Future, Your Choice
As you approach the end of Year 11, it's time to start thinking about your next steps. The choices you make now can shape your future, so it's important to explore all the options available to you. Whether you're aiming for university, an apprenticeship, or jumping straight into the workforce, there's a path that's right for you. Here's a brief overview of the main Post-16 career options:
Sixth Form
Many students choose to stay on at the academy sixth form or move to a college to study A-levels. This traditional route keeps your options open for university and can be a stepping stone to a wide range of careers.
Higher Education Colleges
HE colleges offer a variety of vocational qualifications, such as BTECs and NVQs, which are more focused on practical skills and can lead directly to employment or higher education.
Apprenticeships
Apprenticeships combine work and study, allowing you to earn a wage while gaining qualifications. They are available at various levels and can be a great way to enter industries like engineering, IT, and healthcare.
Traineeships
If you're not quite ready for an apprenticeship, a traineeship can provide the skills and experience needed to progress to one. They include work placements and help with English and Maths if needed.
Employment with Training
Some students opt to enter the workforce directly. It's important to choose an employer who offers training and development opportunities, so you can continue to gain qualifications and progress in your career.
T Levels
T Levels are a new qualification designed to give you a head start towards the future you want. They follow GCSEs and are equivalent to 3 A-levels. The 2-year courses, developed in collaboration with employers and businesses, are designed to meet the needs of industry and prepare you for work, further training, or study.
Remember, there's no one-size-fits-all answer, and it's okay to take your time to decide. Speak to your teachers, career advisors, and family to help you make an informed decision. Your future is in your hands, and the possibilities are endless!
COLLEGES
St Helens College - https://www.sthelens.ac.uk/
Winstanley College - https://www.winstanley.ac.uk/
Carmel College - https://www.carmel.ac.uk/
Priestley College – https://www.priestley.ac.uk/
Warrington and Vale Royal College – https://www.wvr.ac.uk/
Cronton Sixth Form College – http://www.cronton.ac.uk/
Riverside College – http://www.riversidecollege.ac.uk/
APPRENTICESHIPS
National Apprenticeship Service
The government’s apprenticeship website has a range of information on becoming an apprentice and local and national apprenticeship vacancies.
https://www.gov.uk/topic/further-education-skills/apprenticeships
UNIVERSITIES
www.ucas.com – this site is used to apply to uni and you can check what qualifications you need to study a particular degree
www.gov.uk/student-finance
www.thecompleteuniversityguide.co.uk
www.unistats.direct.gov.uk
www.whatuni.com
www.university.which.co.uk/
www.bestcourse4me.com
www.thecompleteuniversityguide.co.uk
www.ukcoursefinder.com
www.thestudentroom.co.uk