Skip to content ↓

Students

Careers Education Information:


Post 16 Choices

The step up from Key Stage 4 to Key Stage 5 (Post16) is a significant one and it is really important that you understand what the options are. There are 3 pathways:

  • Pathway 1: Sixth form within another school
  • Pathway 2: College – North Kent College (Dartford/ Gravesend/ Tonbridge/ Hadlow), Mid Kent College (Maidstone/ Gillingham).
  • Pathway 3: Another educational provider or employment

 

Vocational qualifications at college usually take one or two years and suit students who want to learn more about a particular area of work or train for a particular industry. They combine classroom learning with research and practical activities. The majority of vocational qualifications are offered at colleges and are available at different levels. The entry requirements depend on the college, subject and level.

If any students do not achieve a grade 4 or above in GCSE Maths or English they will also be required to carry on studying these subjects at school, college or as an apprentice.

 

Traineeships/Apprenticeships

An apprenticeship combines working and earning money with training at a college to obtain qualifications. There are over 250 different types of apprenticeship available ranging from hairdressing to accountancy.  At age 16, students can do an apprenticeship at Level 2 (Intermediate) or Level 3 (Advanced). An apprenticeship can lead on to a Higher Apprenticeship or a Degree-level Apprenticeship. There are also traineeships available that can then lead into an apprenticeship.

Students can find out more and search for apprenticeships on the government apprenticeships website.

 

Work Experience

Work experience week will give you an experience in the world of work and will help you to develop personal and social skills. It also helps to increase awareness of the opportunities available. The experience will help you to grow in confidence and understand what you need to do to achieve your goals.

 

Support

In addition to other careers-related activities, you will have an individual careers meeting. This is an opportunity for students to discuss their plans and receive guidance and support. A plan of action is agreed during the meeting to help students understand the next steps that should be taken. Students in any year group are welcome to request a meeting if they would like support.