Post 16 Opportunities at Ysgol Afon Wen

At Ysgol Afon Wen, we understand that choosing the right path after Year 11 is a significant decision for pupils and parents alike. We are committed to supporting every pupil aged 3 to 16 in reaching their full potential through our Triple-A Promise: activating learning, advancing curiosity, and achieving success. This page is designed to help you explore the options available post 16, so you can make the best choice aligned with your aspirations and needs.

 What are the different levels of qualifications and what do they mean?

At the end of September 2025, we hosted a successful Year 11 Pathways Evening, welcoming representatives from Bryn Celynnog Comprehensive School Sixth Form and Coleg y Cymoedd. Pupils and their families were able to learn more about the diverse range of post-16 options available, from academic courses to vocational training. The evening was well-attended and offered valuable guidance to help pupils make informed decisions about their next steps in education. If you missed the evening, you can access their presentations below:

Advantages of Going to a New School for Sixth Form

Continuing education at a new school for sixth form offers several unique benefits that can complement the values we hold dear at Ysgol Afon Wen:

• Smooth Transition with Familiar Support: Many pupils find that moving to a new school for sixth form provides a fresh start while still benefiting from a supportive environment that encourages being happy, healthy, and ready for the next stage.

• Specialised Academic Focus: Sixth form schools often offer a wide range of A-level courses and bespoke academic programmes designed to challenge and inspire pupils, fostering advancing curiosity and achieving success.

• Smaller Class Sizes and Personalised Attention: With smaller cohorts, pupils often receive more tailored teaching and pastoral care, helping them to thrive and develop responsibility and respect for themselves and others.

• Enhanced Preparation for Higher Education: Sixth form schools frequently have strong links with universities, providing pupils with guidance and opportunities to prepare for higher education and future careers.

• Vibrant Social and Extracurricular Life: Pupils can often engage in diverse clubs, leadership opportunities, and events that build confidence and community spirit, reflecting our value of being responsible members of society.

Advantages of Attending College for Post 16 Qualifications

Alternatively, colleges provide a different but equally valuable route for pupils pursuing post 16 education:

• Wide Range of Vocational and Academic Courses: Colleges typically offer a broad spectrum of qualifications, including BTECs, NVQs, apprenticeships, and A-levels, catering to diverse interests and career pathways.

• Access to Industry-Standard Facilities: Many colleges boast specialised workshops, studios, and technology that allow pupils to gain hands-on experience in their chosen fields, sparking advancing curiosity and real-world learning.

• Greater Independence and Life Skills: Attending college often means navigating a larger campus and managing your own timetable, which cultivates responsibility and readiness for adult life.

• Opportunities for Work Experience and Apprenticeships: Colleges often collaborate closely with local businesses, offering pupils chances to gain practical experience and build professional networks.

• Inclusive and Diverse Environment: Colleges welcome pupils from varied backgrounds, supporting the development of respect and understanding within a wider community.

 What is an Apprenticeship?

An apprenticeship is a fantastic way for pupils to gain real-world work experience while studying for a qualification related to their chosen career. Apprenticeships allow pupils to:

• Work and earn a salary at the same time as studying.

• Gain qualifications from Level 2 (equivalent to GCSEs) up to degree level.

• Learn practical skills in a wide variety of sectors beyond the traditional fields of business, IT, and engineering, including creative industries, health and social care, and more.

• Benefit from paid college or university study as part of their apprenticeship.

Apprenticeship Levels and Study Pathways

• Level 2 Apprenticeships: These usually begin with a college course combined with workplace training, providing foundational skills and qualifications.

• Advanced Apprenticeships (Level 3): Pupils continue college study alongside their work placement, developing more specialised skills.

• Degree Apprenticeships: These can take up to five years and include university-level study, with tuition fees paid by the employer. This route offers the chance to earn a full degree while gaining valuable industry experience.