Post-16 Options
Further Education colleges and sixth form colleges offer two main types of qualifications:
- A-Levels
- Vocational Qualifications e.g. BTEC
A-Levels
Like GCSEs an A level covers one subject in depth and is assessed through exams at the end of a two year course. Most people pick 3 subjects but others may only do 2, if they have to resit their Maths or English GCSE. They are offered in a variety of subjects e.g. English, Geography, Criminology. Different colleges offer a different range of subjects. It is important you do your research, to find the college who does the right mix of subjects for you.
Each college sets its own entry requirements but generally they are looking for a minimum of five “good” GCSE passes, usually at grade 4 or above. In addition, some subjects might have their own requirement e.g. a college may ask for a minimum of grade 6 in Maths for you to take A level Maths.
Vocational Qualifications
If you choose a vocational qualification you study a variety of topics within one area of work such as engineering, catering or childcare. Vocational qualifications are usually more hands on than A levels, with a mix of both practical and theory. They are usually assessed through a mixture of coursework and assessments/exams.
There are vocational qualifications at different levels, with level 3 being equivalent to A levels.
Level 3 qualifications are equivalent to UCAS points and are accepted by universities- but if you have a specific degree/university in mind please check before deciding whether to take vocational qualifications or A levels.
Further information on UCAS points and the application process for university can be found on the UCAS website.
Technical Qualifications: T-Levels
T Levels are new courses which follow GCSEs and are equivalent to 3 A levels. These 2-year courses, which launched September 2020, have been developed in collaboration with employers and businesses so that the content meets the needs of industry and prepares students for work, further training or study.
T Levels offer students a mixture of classroom learning and ‘on-the-job’ experience during an industry placement of at least 315 hours (approximately 45 days).
The first 3 T Levels are now available at selected colleges, schools and other providers across England.
A further 7 T Levels have been available since September 2021 and there are now over 20 subjects to choose from.
More information can be found here:
- Introduction to T-Levels – Government website
- The Careers Guide published by the Tees Valley Careers can offer further help.
Apprenticeships
What is an apprenticeship?
- An Apprenticeships is a way of combining practical training in a job with study.
- As an apprentice you’ll:
- work alongside experienced staff
- gain job-specific skills
- earn a wage and get holiday pay
- get time for study related to your role (usually one day a week)
- Apprenticeships can vary in length, they can take between 1 to 5 years to complete depending on their level. There are 4 levels of Apprenticeship:
- Intermediate (GCSE equivalent)
- Advanced (A Level equivalent)
- Higher (Foundation degree equivalent)
- Degree (Bachelors/Masters equivalent)
What is a traineeship?
A traineeship is a training programme which incorporates work experience, designed to prepare young people for their future careers. They are most suitable for young people aged 16 to 24 who don’t yet have the appropriate skills or experience to cope with an apprenticeship.
Everything you need to know can be found at: www.apprenticeships.gov.uk
For further information:
University
It is never too early to start thinking about University, it is wise to start looking at your options now. Especially if you have a career goal in mind; identifying what qualifications you will need to access a certain university course.
Below are links which you may find useful:
The Russell Group (https://www.russellgroup.ac.uk/) of leading UK universities has published a guide to post-16 subject choices.
Informed Choices (https://www.informedchoices.ac.uk/) was produced in collaboration with the Institute of Career Guidance and is aimed at all students considering A-level and equivalent options. It includes advice on the best subject combinations for a wide range of university courses as well as advice on the best choices if you don’t know what you want to study after school and need to keep your options open.
UCAS (https://www.ucas.com/) is a useful website to explore all University options. Also giving practical advice on applying and a general guide to University.
Armed Forces
If you are thinking about a career in the Armed Forces (Army, Navy and Royal Air Force), it is important to research your options. There are a multitude of career options within the Armed Forces, some of which you may never of thought of. All three of the armed forces offer apprenticeships to young people joining at 16, with the consent of their parents. Many Army apprenticeships are based at Harrogate with RAF and Navy placements taking place across the country.
- The Army: https://apply.army.mod.uk/
- The Navy: https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/careers
- The Royal Air Force (RAF): https://www.raf.mod.uk/recruitment/
