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You have a variety of choices at 16, which include going to college to study A level or vocational qualifications. Some colleges specialise in one area (A levels only), other colleges offer more than one option. You should research what is available to you not only in your local area but also throughout Tees Valley.
When you are starting to look at your post-16 pathways, you should consider all of your options alongside your long-term career aspirations to help you to decide which is the best route for you.
Find your future in the Tees Valley. Take a look at our amazing colleges, sixth forms and training providers with information below on how you can enrol.
Sixth form colleges provide high-quality academic education to 16 to 18-year-olds enabling them to progress to university or higher level vocational education.
Vocational colleges offer courses to students as an alternative route to A levels, focusing on a specific profession, such as Engineering, IT & Digital, Catering and Sport.
A set of examinations normally taken at the end of your compulsory education (age 15-16). Grades range from 9-1, the qualifications are an important stepping stone in your career progression...
A-levels are academic qualifications and allow students to find out more about their favourite subjects or experience new subjects only available from A-level such as: Law and Economics...
T-levels are a new qualification which follow on from GCSE’s and are the equivalent to three A-levels. Each course is delivered over a 2 year period, and will consist of both classroom based learning as well as an industrial placement lasting approximately 45 days.
Find out more about T-Levels here...
Vocational qualifications are available in a wide range of subjects. This pathway is better suited to those students who want to follow a route into a specific sector or industry or are unsure which pathway they wish to follow and want to try something they have an interest in. These courses consist of both theory and practical elements.
You will work with an employer and earn a salary (normally minimum apprenticeship wage, although some companies can pay above). You will receive valuable ‘on the job’ training and gain experience.
To help young people aged 16-19 gain employability skills and qualifications to progress into further education, apprenticeship or employment. This may also include support with English and Maths for those young people who have not achieved GCSE Grades 4-9 and possible work experience.
Usually takes place at either a University or Further Education College. You can study for an undergraduate or postgraduate degree.
Higher level apprenticeships are available from Level 4 to 7 and combine work and study together. Study usually takes place part time with a college, university or training provider. Higher level apprenticeships can take between one to five years to complete.
When you are employed into a paid job and when a contract has been signed between you and the employer. Please be aware of the minimum wage for each age group https://www.gov.uk/national-minimum-wage-rates
Look through the college websites to see what courses they offer, what levels are available, attend open days/evenings, engage with your parents/carers, and speak to school staff and careers advisors.
