Careers advice for 14 to 19 year olds

Young people must stay in education or training until they are 18 but you have a choice about how you study from age 16.

Your options are:

  • staying in full-time education at school, college or at home
  • staying in part-time education or training if you are employed, self employed or volunteering for more than 20 hours a week
  • learning at work through an apprenticeship or traineeship

Schools and colleges provide careers advice. They should explain what the options are when a course is finished or you are leaving school.

Our Post-16 team can help if you are aged 16 and 17 and not in education, employment or training. They can explain what opportunities there are to study or get a job locally. Our coaches will encourage you to reach your full potential and take responsibility for decisions about your future.

Post-16 team

You can contact the Post-16 team by e-mail, phone or Facebook

If you are aged 18 and over, you can register with the Job Centre to help you look for work. If you want some general advice and guidance, you can contact The National Careers Service.