Choices at 16: what next?

You’re required to remain in education or training until the end of the school year when you turn 18.

If you're in year 11, you'll have to choose one of the following options:

  • full time study for A-levels or another college course
  • full time work or volunteering alongside part-time education or training
  • an apprenticeship

It’s worth looking ahead, as decisions you make now may narrow your choices later.

University courses have specific entry requirements, and some professions have recognised routes to qualifying. It's important that you get advice and understand your options on what to do next.

There are always opportunities to change direction and alternative routes to get to where you want to be, but thinking about your future now could make life easier in years to come.

Staying in education – local providers

If you decide to stay in education, the main options are:

  • going to your current school’s sixth form – if it has one
  • moving to a dedicated sixth form or further education college

Haringey has 2 further education colleges – both offer advice about the courses they provide and entry requirements.

Haringey Sixth Form College

Located in Tottenham, the Haringey Sixth Form College refers to itself as #MoreThanACollege, with a "unique and holistic approach to education that sets them apart."

Visit their website for more information on courses available and how to apply.

Haringey Sixth Form College

The College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London (CONEL)

The College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London (CONEL) offers an extensive range of academic and vocational courses for all 16 to 18-year-olds and adult learners.

Visit their website for more information on courses available, their centres, open days and more.

Visit CONEL

Apprenticeships

An apprenticeship is a real job with training so you can earn while you learn, and pick up recognised qualifications as you go.

There are plenty of apprenticeship roles on offer, in sectors ranging from animal care to engineering.

Apprenticeships take between 1 and 4 years to complete and have different entry levels depending on the qualifications you already hold.

Read more on our jobs and apprenticeships page.

Internships/training

You can search for courses and training online and get advice on qualifications and funding from the National Careers Service.

Improve your skills

You can find free courses to help develop your digital and numeracy skills for work on ‘The Skills Toolkit’.

Courses range from beginner to advanced level. You can learn how to:

  • use computers and online tools confidently
  • stay safe online (cyber security)
  • write computer programs using code

Getting advice

Speak to your teachers at school. They may have links with local colleges and training providers or have examples of what past students have done.

Parents, carers, friends and relatives may also be able to provide ideas and guidance.

If you want to speak to a careers advisor for help, you can:

More resources and useful links

Financial support

UCAS

General advice and support

Haringey SEND

Contact us

Email: YouthSpace@haringey.gov.uk

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