Students and Parents
Below is some information and links to websites which may be of use to students when planning their future.
These websites also provide information that will enable parents and carers to support their children with decisions around their next steps.
Sixth Form
Selecting the right subjects and qualifications at Sixth Form/College is crucial for keeping your future options open, whether you're aiming for university or an apprenticeship. Here's a guide to help you make informed decisions.
Essential GCSEs
- English and Maths. Passing these subjects is mandatory.
Requirements for Sixth Form
- A Levels typically require at least a grade 5 in English Language and Maths.
- Level 3 CTECs/BTECs generally require at least a grade 4 in English Language and Maths.
Sixth Form Qualifications
You can pursue several qualifications at Sixth Form/College:
- Level 2 Courses
- A Levels
- Level 3 CTECs/BTECs
- Cambridge Pre-U
- International Baccalaureate (IB)
- T Levels.
Level 2 Courses
If you don't pass enough exams in Year 11, you might take another year to enhance your Level 2 qualifications to prepare for Level 3. English and Maths GCSEs must be retaken if you score below a grade 4.
Level 3 Courses
- A Levels - These are academic qualifications assessed primarily through final exams at the end of Year 13. You typically need at least a grade 6 in related subjects and a minimum of seven 9-4 grades at GCSE. They involve extensive reading, essays and exams.
- Level 3 CTECs/BTECs - These vocational qualifications are excellent for practical degree courses. They involve coursework and some exams and require passing all units and assignments. Entry requirements usually include at least four 9-4 grades at GCSE.
- Combining A Levels and Vocational Qualifications - Many students successfully combine A Levels with CTECs/BTECs. Most universities accept this combination, though some high-level courses at top universities may prefer three full A Levels.
Subjects
Sixth Form/College offers a diverse array of subjects, all of which are valuable. It's important to choose the right subjects to ensure you have numerous options available when considering university or apprenticeships. Research thoroughly and consult with a careers adviser to ensure you make the best choices for your goals.
Useful links
Informed Choices - Information and advice on the best post-16 subject choices for university degrees
Higher Education
Attending university is an exciting journey that opens doors to a world of possibilities. Here are some reasons to consider university as your next step:
- University allows you to delve deeply into subjects you're passionate about, providing a more specialised and thorough education than what you have previously experienced.
- Higher education emphasises critical thinking, research skills, and problem-solving abilities, preparing you to tackle complex issues in your chosen field and beyond.
- University is not just about academics; it's a transformative experience that helps you develop independence, self-discipline and time management skills. It's an opportunity to grow personally as you navigate new challenges and experiences.
- A university degree can significantly improve your job prospects.
- University provides a unique environment to connect with peers, professors and industry professionals. These connections can be invaluable for future job opportunities and career advancement.
- Universities often have excellent resources, including libraries, laboratories and technology, which can enhance your learning and research capabilities.
- Universities typically offer a range of support services, including career advice, counselling and academic support, ensuring you have the help you need to succeed.
- From sports teams to student societies, universities offer a wealth of extra-curricular activities that can enrich your university experience and help you develop new skills and interests.
- University brings together students from various backgrounds and cultures, providing a rich and diverse environment where you can learn from different perspectives and make lifelong friends.
- Many universities offer programs that allow you to study abroad, giving you the chance to experience different cultures and education systems while earning your degree.
- If you're considering postgraduate studies, a university degree is often a necessary step. Many professional fields such as medicine and law require advanced degrees.
Useful links:
UCAS - useful for university applications and guidance. This site also features useful information regarding internships, apprenticeships, employment and gap years - https://www.ucas.com/
The Uni Guide - students can search university courses in more detail, and to explore what courses lead on well from the subjects they are currently studying - https://www.theuniguide.co.uk/
Apprenticeships and other alternatives
Choosing an apprenticeship offers a unique pathway that combines practical work experience with academic learning. Here are some reasons why an apprenticeship might be the right choice for you:
- Earn While You Learn - one of the most attractive aspects of apprenticeships is the ability to earn a salary while gaining valuable skills and qualifications. You’ll be financially compensated for your work, helping you become financially independent from the start.
- No Tuition Fees - unlike university, apprenticeships typically do not require you to pay tuition fees. In most cases, the employer and the government cover the costs of your training, allowing you to gain qualifications without incurring student debt.
- Apprenticeships provide hands-on training in a real work environment. This practical experience is invaluable and allows you to apply what you learn immediately, making you job-ready from day one.
- Apprenticeships are available in a wide range of industries, from engineering and IT to healthcare and creative arts. This variety allows you to pursue a career that matches your interests and strengths.
- Apprenticeships are tailored to specific industries, ensuring you gain relevant skills and knowledge that are directly applicable to your chosen field. This specialised training can make you a highly desirable candidate for future employers.
- Beyond technical skills, apprenticeships help you develop soft skills such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and time management. These are crucial for career success in any industry.
- Apprenticeships often lead to permanent positions with the company you train with. Many employers view apprentices as long-term investments and are keen to offer full-time roles to those who complete their apprenticeships successfully.
- While working, you’ll build relationships with colleagues, mentors and industry professionals. These connections can provide valuable support and open doors to future career opportunities.
If you prefer a more practical, hands-on approach to learning and working, an apprenticeship offers an excellent alternative to the traditional university route. It allows you to start building your career immediately while still gaining respected qualifications.
Useful links:
Apprenticeship search -https://www.findapprenticeship.service.gov.uk/apprenticeshipsearch
A Guide to Apprenticeships - https://www.gov.uk/become-apprentice
The Apprenticeships Guide - https://apprenticeshipguide.co.uk/
Amazing Apprenticeships - https://amazingapprenticeships.com/parent-zone/
The National Apprenticeship Service – Support for Parents and Carers - https://www.apprenticeships.gov.uk/influencers/support-for-parents-and-guardians
For students who are interested in alternatives to the traditional university route, this website covers everything gap years, internships, sponsored degrees and more - https://notgoingtouni.co.uk/ -
Career pathways
Labour Market Information
Labour market information effectively describes the world of work – it ranges from descriptions of different careers, their entry routes, promotional prospects, salaries paid, skills and qualifications needed, etc. Crucially for young people, Labour market information also covers future demand – what kinds of jobs will be in demand after leaving school and what kinds of skills will be needed.
Useful links:
High quality Labour market Information to inform careers decisions - https://www.lmiforall.org.uk/
LMI Skillsometer - https://www.lmiforall.org.uk/skillsometer/
LMI Careerometer - https://www.lmiforall.org.uk/careerometer/
National Careers Service - https://nationalcareers.service.gov.uk/
ICould - https://icould.com/
All About Careers - https://www.allaboutcareers.com/
Prospects - https://www.prospects.ac.uk/
Be Ready Group - Videos to support students with employability skills - https://bereadygroup.org/ready-schools-learn/
A parent’s toolkit for careers conversations - www.talkingfutures.org.uk-
Success at School Parents Advice Pages - https://successatschool.org/advice
Career Alchemy – https://www.careeralchemy.co.uk/inspired-teenager.html
My World of Work help to explore over 600 job profiles and includes advice on options choices - https://www.myworldofwork.co.uk/
Find out about careers and opportunities in your area - https://careers.startprofile.com/page/home-page
Information about skills gaps and demand for different skills and qualifications - http://skillsmatch.intelligentlondon.org.uk/
