Options After Year 11

Studying A levels at a school sixth form or college

These are 2 year academic Level 3/Advanced courses requiring a minimum of 5 grades 9 to 5/4 (or equivalent) at GCSE including English Language & Maths, they are assessed by examinations. Some subjects have specific entry requirements requiring higher grades. Normally you would choose 3 subjects and alongside your academic studies most sixth forms would offer an enrichment programme.  You could for example take an EPQ (extended project qualification)  https://www.whatuni.com/advice/sixth-form-life/should-you-do-an-epq-in-sixth-form/54013/

and https://www.thestudentroom.co.uk/a-level/extended-project-qualification-epq or extended work experience/volunteering. A level’s can lead to University or Advanced/Higher/Degree Level Apprenticeships/Jobs. Some sixth forms now also offer Level 2 and Level 3 BTEC courses. A blended Level 3 approach might be available too.

Vocational courses.

These are available at many different levels from Entry/Foundation level upwards.  Diplomas/Technical Certificates are one of the most common vocational qualifications; different bodies can award them e.g. BTEC, UAL, AAT. Entry requirements for Level 2/Intermediate courses can vary, usually 4 GCSEs grade 3 or above including English Language & Maths, some course requirements are different so do check. Those who achieve less than a grade 4 in English Language and/or Maths will continue to study this subject/s next year, perhaps alongside a college course or an apprenticeship. An Extended Diploma at Level 3/Advanced, which is equivalent to 3 A levels, usually requires a minimum 5 GCSEs at grade 4 or above including English Language & Maths. These courses can lead to University or Advanced/Higher/Degree Level Apprenticeships and Jobs. Your focus will be on one Vocational area which will involve more assessment and practical based learning, quite often including work placements.  There is usually an exam element too.  It is always best to check the above information with the provider. 

T-Levels

A new career-focused alternative to A Levels.  Launched September 2020, T Levels are a new qualification choice that will follow on from GCSE’s and give you a head start towards the career you want.  You will be required to achieve a Grade 4 in English and Maths.  It will suit you if you wish to start working towards a skilled occupation or prefer a practical approach to learning and want a predominantly classroom-based course.  T Levels will last for 2 years and are delivered by an FE provider (80% in the classroom and 20% in the workplace.)  Developed in collaboration with employers T Levels comprise of a mix of practical tasks, projects and exams.  One T Level is comparable in size to 3 A Levels and will attract UCAS points.

Apprenticeships

Combine hands – on work with the opportunity to train and obtain qualifications. It’s a paid position so you earn while you learn. The current minimum wage rate for an apprentice is £3.90 per hour; however some employers are prepared to pay up to £275+ per week.  You can complete a registration form on the National Apprenticeship Service website www.gov.uk/apply-apprenticeship It is also important to search for vacancies on the Oxfordshire Apprenticeships website – www.oxfordshireapprenticeships.co.uk and the Oxfordshire County Council website – www.oxme.info/  Most Further Education Colleges have Apprenticeship teams so register your interest with them too.

It is also advantageous to go directly to company websites and check the careers/recruitment pages. Generally, apprenticeships involve 4 days in the work place (you will need to find an employer) and one day at college each week although this format can vary depending on the industry. They last a minimum of 12 months and start at Level 2 (Intermediate).

Traineeships.

If you want to work, but need extra help to gain an apprenticeship/traineeships offer, then starting a traineeship course is an opportunity to develop the skills and workplace experience that employers may require. They involve work skills training, alongside support to improve English and Maths. Schools, colleges and training providers offer these but they are not paid.

Employment with training.

If you choose to find employment and work for 20 hours or more when you finish Year 11 you are also required to continue with approved learning.  This can be through your work place or in your own time and can include paid or voluntary work.

NB: If you are not sure about your career ideas yet don’t worry but try to keep a range of options open if you can.  It is important to have a back-up plan and apply for more than one option in case you change your mind or in case you do not achieve the required grades for your first choice.