Exploring Pathways

After GCSEs, students must stay in education or training until the age of 18. There are several ways to do this — you can stay on at school, move to a college, or start work-based training. Find out more about each option below: 

Once you’ve completed your Level 3 qualifications (A Levels, BTECs, T Levels, etc.), you can continue your journey in higher education, enter the world of work, or take time to explore your interests. There’s no single “right” choice — only what’s right for you. 

• 🔗 Helpful Links & Further Guidance

• 🧭 Unifrog – a one-stop platform for exploring careers, courses, and apprenticeships. Students can compare university degrees, vocational courses, and job roles, and log activities to build their personal statement or CV.
  🔗 https://www.unifrog.org

• 🎯 National Careers Service – offers free, impartial advice on choosing the right pathway; includes job profiles, CV help, and 1:1 support for anyone aged 13+ up to adults
  🔗 https://nationalcareers.service.gov.uk

• 🎓 UCAS – the go-to source for all things university: search courses, understand entry requirements, submit your application, and learn about clearing and personal statements
  🔗 https://www.ucas.com/undergraduate

• 🛠️ Amazing Apprenticeships – explore apprenticeships at all levels, plus access the free Parent Zone, including printable guides, podcasts, and application tips
  🔗 https://amazingapprenticeships.com/

• 👣 T Levels – GOV.UK – find out what T Levels are, how they’re structured, and where to study them in England
  🔗 https://www.tlevels.gov.uk/students

• 🧰 BTEC – Pearson – learn about vocational qualifications that offer hands-on learning across many different industries, suitable for career-focused students
  🔗 https://qualifications.pearson.com/btec

• 💼 Prospects – Gap Year Options – a trusted guide to planning meaningful gap year experiences, including travel, volunteering, internships, and more
  🔗 https://www.prospects.ac.uk/careers-advice/what-can-i-do-next/gap-year-ideas