Education
Leaving school
Did you know...
BY 2015 all young people will stay in education or training until they’re 18. It’s being brought in by the Government so that you have extra time to fulfil your potential. But it doesn’t just mean staying on at school after 16.
You can choose:
- Full-time education, such as 6th form or college
- Work-based learning, like foundation learning or an apprenticeship
- Part-time education or training if they are employed, self-employed or volunteering for more than 20 hours a week
Doing nothing is not an option.
Research shows that young people not in education, employment or training up to 18 are more likely to be unemployed in the future, earn less and have health problems. Staying on means you’ll have chance to learn skills that employers are looking for so you’re more likely to get a job in the future.
It’s your responsibility to make sure you take part.
So what are you waiting for?
Find out more from your school’s careers staff or Connexions advisor.
Why the change?
The world of work is changing. New jobs are being created and many will be more complicated and demanding — employers will be looking for people with more skills, training and qualifications. The more training and qualifications you have, the better your chances of getting a good job that you enjoy in the future. In fact, why stop at 18? You can carry on in higher education or training after you are 18 to improve your chances even further.
What does this mean for me?
It means that you should start thinking about the type of learning or training you need to do, to get you where you want to be in the future.
From the age of 14, you will have more choice about the different pathways to follow – not just GCSEs and A levels but lots of other types of qualifications will also be available including Apprenticeships and work-related learning.
Take a look at the latest edition of b_line to read how Abigail Polkey is fulfilling her potential as an events management apprentice.
Can I train to do a job?
Yes. If you know the career you want to follow, such as hairdressing for example, you can choose a specialist training provider to help you get there. They offer work experience alongside key qualifications related to that career. Or how about an Apprenticeship? There are nearly 200 different job roles available as Apprenticeships. On an Apprenticeship you will be employed to work and will also get training, either on site or at college.
Can I get any job?
Yes but if you are aged 16 or 17 and are employed for 20 hours per week or more, and for more than 8 weeks in a row, your employer will need to:
- provide you with accredited training on site, or
- agree reasonable hours of work to allow you to do some off-site accredited training.
Can I just do nothing?
No. The purpose of the raising of the participation age is to provide every young person with more time to develop the skills they need for a successful career and working life.
Where can I go for more information?
To find the best way for you to learn and develop your skills contact your school’s careers staff or speak to a Connexions Adviser.
