“What are my options?”

From 2015, young people are required to continue in learning or training until they are age 18. Raising the participation age (RPA) does not mean young people must stay in school.

What are my choices, and what should I do next?

Your options range from college courses and sixth form, to apprenticeships and other work-based learning options.

You can:

Stay in full-time education – at a school sixth form, 6th form college or FE College and study a range of qualifications at all levels from foundation courses to Level 3, vocational to A level and T level study programmes.

Attend a training provider – Some training providers also offer full time courses, with start dates throughout the year. These are much smaller than a 6th form or college, and give you the chance to get work experience, improve your maths and English skills, and gain confidence.

View our saved search of the main Post-16 Education and Training Providers.

'I have additional needs'

If you have additional needs, find out about your options and the support available to you on our page - 'I have additional needs'.

If you are in care or leaving care, find out about you options and the support available to you on our page - 'I am in care or leaving care'.

“I don’t know where to start!”

It can feel overwhelming! These tips may help…

1) Think about what you enjoy, how you like to learn and what type of qualification suits you.

2) Think about where you would like to study - e.g school sixth-form, sixth-form college, further education College, training centre, on the job such as an apprenticeship.

3) Speak to your school for careers advice (if you are a recent school leaver), or you can contact your local adviser from the Youth Support Services(16-18)Team to find out who can help you.

Money Matters

The leaflet below contains links to help you think about money, benefits and your post 16 choices.

Financial-Services-Leaflet-Updated Download

Online Resources

What do I want to be when I am older?

National Careers Service website for careers advice and you can explore careers, search for learning opportunities or take the skills assessment. They also have a handy page called outlining your post-16 options, that details different types of qualification.
Home – Apprenticeships Suffolk – Search for and find support to find an apprenticeship.
The Mix – Work and Study advice and local drop-ins