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Studying, training and volunteering

Studying and training

There is a lot to think about when you reach the age of 16. Do you want to go to college or university, or maybe start an apprenticeship. 

You may also be in the process of taking exams at school and there is some useful information that can help with that. 

  • BBC Bitesize: exam stress, how parents can help
  • Mind: exam stress for 11 to 18 year olds
  • NHS: help your child beat exam stress
  • GOV.UK: coping with exam pressure – a guide for students 

After Year 11

You can choose to:  

  • study full-time at sixth form or college or with another provider (further education)
  • start an apprenticeship
  • work or volunteer for 20 hours or more a week while in part-time education or training 

Don't forget that whatever choice you make you must stay in education or training until you are 18. 

Colleges

Colleges offer A levels and apprenticeships. Find out what opportunities are available via their websites:

Apprenticeships 

Apprenticeships are real jobs with real employers, allowing you to work, earn a salary and gain valuable qualifications and experience. 

The GOV.UK website has information and guidance on finding an apprenticeship, internship or traineeship. You can also download the apprenticeship app to better manage your apprenticeship on the go.

You may be considering an apprenticeship with the council. If so, you can find out more on our website.

Working

When you leave school, you can go to work, undertake voluntary work, become an intern or even set up your own business.

However, you'll still need to be doing part-time training or study that leads to an officially recognised qualification, like a Vocational Technical Qualification (VTQ). This means that as well as gaining valuable experience, you'll also end up with a recognised accreditation that supports your future career. 

Part-time education or training alongside full-time work must be of at least 280 guided learning hours (GLH) per year. This means the equivalent of about one day a week spent being taught by a lecturer, supervisor or tutor. These hours can be taken flexibly around working hours, as distance learning or in blocks.

Other sources of information