Options

If you haven't decided which options are right for you, don't worry, you're not alone.

Take a look at the choices here, or go to 'Advice' for more help.

14+

In Year 9 it's your first chance to make decisions about what you are going to do. The choices you make will affect how you spend your time in Year 10 and 11.

16+

After Year 11 your main choice will be whether to stay on in full-time education, or to start work and train while you earn.

18+

At 18 you'll choose whether to stay in full-time education, start work/training, or maybe take a Gap Year.

Diplomas

Diplomas are a new qualification that can be taken at age 14 (KS4) or 16 (sixth-form) in a range of subjects.

Volunteering

Volunteering means giving up some of your free time to help others, without payment (although expenses may be paid).

Hints and tips

Sonya, age 18 studying at York College tells us her top tips for making the right options choices.

1. Use websites and career advisers
2. Look at prospectuses and go to open days
3. Find courses you’re interested in. You’ll do better if you really enjoy what you’re doing
4. Be realistic – do subjects that will help you get where you want to be
5. Talk to older friends about what they have chosen