Post-16 and Post-18 Options
There are different options available to young people who are transitioning past school and into post-16 settings, and those who are finishing college or sixth form heading into post-18.
Post-16 Options
The raising of the participation age means at the end of year 11 you will need to continue in education or training until at least your 18th birthday. Some examples of this are:
- Full time education, such as A Levels or Btec’s
- Apprenticeships – allowing for the opportunity to combine on the job training
with studying for a qualification - Supported internships are structured study programmes based mainly with an employer. They support young people aged 16 to 24 who have an Education, Health and Care Plan to build the skills and experience needed to move towards paid work.
The Careers and Participation Service can give information, advice and support to eligible Birmingham young people who need help understanding their options or moving into education, employment or training. The service brings together the 14 to 19 Team, Birmingham Careers Service and the Participation Service.
For more information about each of these options, please see the post-16 guidance.
Post-18 Options
There are four main transition options for young people aged 18. They can either:
- Move into higher education and study for Degrees; Higher National Diplomas/Certificates; Foundation Degrees and Diplomas/Certificates of Higher Education
- Start full time employment including apprenticeships
- Take a gap year to gain experience and develop your employability skills. It is important to spend this time constructively (e.g. travel; working abroad or in the UK; volunteering, etc.)
- Voluntary work/internships which can provide you with direct experience of working in a particular role
For further information about each of these options please see the post-18 guidance.