The options open to students are A levels, vocational courses or apprenticeships:

A levels are two year courses that are exam based. Please refer to the Russell Group website www.informedchoices.ac.uk which gives advice about essential or useful A level subjects required for certain degrees if you are aiming to apply to one of the more prestigious universities. A levels can lead on to a degree or an apprenticeship.

Vocational courses are aimed at a particular area of work. Diplomas, T levels and BTECs are ideal for students with a vocation in mind and who have a practical and hands on learning style. These qualifications can also lead on to a degree or an apprenticeship.

T-levels is a new qualification that is equivalent to 3 A levels. It is a two-year qualification which brings the classroom and the work place together. It includes a 45-day work placement. T-levels that will be available from September 2020 are Construction, Digital Production and Education & Childcare. T-levels offer a pathway to employment, higher apprenticeship or degree. Please see www.gov.uk/dfe/t-levels for more information.

Apprenticeships

Apprenticeships combine practical training in a job with study.

As an apprentice you will

· Work alongside experienced staff

· Gain job-specific skills

· Earn a wage and get holiday pay

· Study towards a related qualification (usually one day a week)

You will need to find an employer who is willing to offer you an apprenticeship. You will need to register on the National Apprenticeships website, www.apprenticeships.org.uk; ask family, friends etc about who might be able to offer an apprenticeship; contact businesses to enquire if they would be likely to have an apprenticeship vacancy; apply to colleges for apprenticeships.

Traineeships

A pre-apprenticeship programme that supports students who would like to be an apprentice but may lack confidence and experience and the required grades. Students attend extra tuition in classrooms, gain work experience and receive support to secure an apprenticeship.