Year 12-13

Year 12-13

When your child finishes Year 13, there are several routes they can choose to pursue. This stage is often referred to as Post-18 progression. The pathway they choose will depend on a range of factors, including their interests, qualifications, career aspirations, preferred style of learning, financial circumstances, and the opportunities available within the job market.

There is no single "right" route after sixth form. Some students may wish to continue in education, while others may prefer to enter the workplace and begin developing their careers. It is important to remember that many pathways offer opportunities for progression, and students can often move between routes as their goals and circumstances change.

Everyone's journey will be different, but the most common Post-18 pathways include:

• Higher Education – studying for a degree, foundation degree, or other higher education qualification at a university or college.
• Higher Technical Qualifications (HTQs) – Level 4 and 5 technical qualifications delivered by colleges, Institutes of Technology, and some universities, designed in partnership with employers to develop industry-specific skills.
• Apprenticeships – combining paid employment with training and study, allowing students to earn while they learn.
• Employment – entering full-time work, school-leaver programmes, or employer-led training schemes.
• A Gap Year – taking time out before further study or employment to travel, volunteer, gain experience, or explore future options.

The following information outlines these pathways in more detail and highlights key considerations for students and parents when planning for life after sixth form.