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Post Year 11 Pathways
Raising the Participation Age (RPA) came into effect summer 2013. This does not necessarily mean staying in school. Young people will be able to choose how they participate, which could be through full time education such as school or college; apprenticeship; part time education or training if they are employed, self-employed or volunteering for 20 hours or more a week.
Full Time Education
A-levels - These qualifications focus on traditional study skills/exams. They normally take two years to complete full-time. You can choose from a wide range of academic subjects, as well as some 'applied' (work-related) subjects. You usually study three subjects. As a general guide you should aim for a good set of GCSE grades 5-9, preferably 5-8 subjects including English and Maths. Some subjects may require grades in specific subjects.
Vocational courses - These are options where you would learn about an area of work. Depending on what is available, you could study anything from Hairdressing to Construction, Information Technology to Catering. Courses offer a mixture of theory and practical learning and include continual assessment, requiring you to adhere to deadlines.
- LEVEL 2 courses are 1 year courses. Entry requirements may vary but usually you would need 4 GCSEs at grade 3 or above. On successful completion of these courses you may be able to progress onto a level 3 course (see below).
- LEVEL 3 courses take 2 years and are equivalent to 1/2/3 A-levels. Entry requirements may vary at different colleges but usually you would need 4/5 GCSEs at grade 4/5 or above. Vocational courses can allow you to progress onto Higher Education.
It may be possible to study a combination of A-level courses and vocational courses.
Apprenticeships
An apprenticeship allows you to combine work and training, and earn money at the same time. The qualifications you gain will be relevant to the job. The National Apprenticeship Website provides a good starting point to view all local and national opportunities. There can be huge competition for specific work areas and responsibility can be placed on the young person to secure their own work placement. You may like to ensure that your CV is updated so that you can also approach local employers to inquire about vacancies. Apprenticeships can take between one and four years to complete depending on the type of apprenticeship chosen, the apprentices’ ability and the industry sector. For information about vacancies please refer to the website https://www.gov.uk/apply-apprenticeship .
You can access information on all these options using: www.logonmoveon.co.uk
You will need to check
- Specific entry requirements for the options you are considering
- Deadlines for applications
- Open events and taster days for you to attend
Mrs Darvell is your Careers Adviser in school, working Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. You can see her in the careers office at break time or lunchtime for careers information and advice or to arrange a careers interview or email w.darvell@beverleygrammar.co.uk