OPTIONS

There are plenty of options open to school leavers, whether that’s continuing your study, looking for a job, or a combination of both. But which door will open up the right possibilities to you?

You can take the National Career Service’s Discover Your Skills & Career (DYSAC) quiz to find out what jobs might suit your skills – click here to try it!

Here we take look at some of the options that are available to you. You can always call in and see us to discuss your options, or call our helpline on 0300 666 3 666 or drop us an email CareersAdmin@worcestershire.gov.uk.

WORK & STUDY

Apprenticeships
Work alongside experienced staff to learn while you earn a wage.

Age: 16 and over
Cost: free
Leads to: higher education, another apprenticeship or another job
Might be for you if: you want to have a real job while you gain a qualification

What is an apprenticeship?
What is Apprenticeships For All?
What is an Accessible Apprenticeship?

T Levels
Get a mix of learning in the classroom and on the job.

Age: 16 to 19
Cost: free
Leads to: higher education, an apprenticeship or getting a job
Might be for you if: you’d like to know what a career is like while you continue your studies

Traineeships
Develop new skills in the workplace and in the classroom.

Age: 16 to 24
Cost: free
Leads to: an apprenticeship, getting a job or further study
Might be for you if: you want to do an apprenticeship but do not feel ready yet

Vocational Technical Qualifications (VTQs)
Gain skills and experience in a specific job or sector, such as childcare or engineering.

Age: 16 and over
Cost: free
Leads to: further study, volunteering or getting a job
Might be for you if: you’d really like to work in a particular job or industry

STUDY

Higher technical qualifications (HTQs)
Learn technical skills in the classroom. 

Age: 18 and over
Cost: tuition fees vary depending on the course
Leads to: further study or getting a job
Might be for you if: you’d prefer a more practical and technical course rather than a degree

A levels
Study several subjects you enjoy at school, college or sixth form.

Age: 16 and over
Cost: free
Leads to: an apprenticeship, higher education or getting a job
Might be for you if: you prefer learning in the classroom

Higher Education
Choose a subject to study at a university, college or specialist school.

Age: 16 and over
Cost: tuition fees vary depending on the course
Leads to: further study, graduate schemes or getting a job
Might be for you if: you really enjoy a subject or you want to get a job that needs a degree, such as a doctor or a vet

WORK

Supported internships (if you have an ECHP)
Spend time in the workplace while you follow a study plan designed especially for you.

Age: 16 to 24
Cost: free
Leads to: a paid job
Might be for you if: you’d like support and training to get a paid job

School leaver schemes
Join a company’s school leaver scheme to train in a certain job.

Age: 18 and over
Cost: free
Leads to: a permanent job or further study
Might be for you if: you want to get a paid job straight after A levels