16+

Once you get to 16, you've got some decisions to make about your future. You've two key choices ... stay on in full time education, or start work and get training.

Full-time education

You will need to think about subjects you want to study and in what way – some rely on exams, others are assessed by coursework.

You'll also need to think about what level of course is right for you. This will depend on what qualifications you have, or are expecting to get.

• Foundation learning:
  • Entry level: supportive courses (eg Skills for Living) with no formal entry requirements
  • Level 1: usually vocational courses (eg Introductory Diploma). It is an advantage to have some GCSEs E–G, or an entry level qualification
• Level 2: usually vocational courses (eg First Diploma), some needing 3 GCSEs D–E, or a foundation level qualification
• Level 3: usually needing at least 5 GCSEs at grade C or above, or a level 2 qualification.
  • A Level
  • BTECs and Diplomas
  • International Baccalaureate

Work and training

• Apprenticeships: (levels 2–4): train to do a particular job whilst gaining a nationally recognised qualification (eg NVQ)
• Foundation learning (level 1): get the skills you need to go into an Apprenticeship, further learning or a job
• Work and training
  • Writing CVs
  • Job-hunting
  • Castlegate
• Starting your own business