1.3 Explain post-16 options for young people and adults

This guide will help you answer 1.3 Explain post-16 options for young people and adults.

Post-16 education refers to the paths available once a young person finishes Year 11, usually at age 16. At this stage, compulsory education ends, but there is still a legal requirement in England to remain in some form of education or training until the age of 18. Adults also have a wide range of educational and vocational choices beyond this point. These options can shape a person’s career, skills, and qualifications.

It is important to understand the full range of available routes so young people and adults can make informed decisions that match their career aims, interests, and preferred ways of learning.

Full-Time Education at a School Sixth Form

Many secondary schools have a sixth form where students can continue their studies after Year 11.

The sixth form environment is quite structured, similar to lower school, which some learners prefer.

Options often include:

• A Levels in a range of subjects
• Vocational qualifications such as BTECs or Cambridge Technicals

Some sixth forms have entry requirements, usually based on GCSE results. The benefit is that students may already know the teachers and school routines, making the transition smoother.

Sixth Form Colleges

These are separate institutions from school and usually only serve students aged 16 to 19. They have a more adult style of learning compared to school. Sixth form colleges often offer a broader mix of subjects than school sixth forms.

Possible courses include:

• A Levels
• Vocational diplomas
• Combined programmes

Students typically choose them for greater independence, more subject choice, or a fresh start in a new learning environment.

Further Education (FE) Colleges

Further Education colleges offer a large range of academic and vocational courses. They usually have more flexible entry requirements than schools or sixth form colleges and can cater for learners of all ages.

Courses include:

• GCSE resits for those needing to improve grades
• A Levels
• Vocational qualifications such as BTECs, NVQs, or diplomas
• Technical qualifications linked to trades or industries

FE colleges often have strong links with local employers, providing work placements alongside study. This combination can help learners move directly into employment or progress to higher education.

Apprenticeships

An apprenticeship allows someone to work while learning skills for a specific job or trade. Apprentices are paid a wage and spend most of their time in the workplace. They also receive training, often one day a week, with a college or training provider.

Apprenticeships are available at different levels:

• Intermediate (Level 2)
• Advanced (Level 3)
• Higher (Level 4, 5, 6, and 7)

This route suits those who prefer practical learning and want to gain experience while earning. It can lead to long-term employment with the training employer or open doors to other opportunities.

Traineeships

A traineeship is a short training programme that includes work experience, maths and English lessons, and skills development. It is aimed at 16 to 24-year-olds who need extra support before starting an apprenticeship or job.

Traineeships focus on building confidence, workplace understanding, and employability. They do not pay a wage, but expenses such as travel or meals may be covered.

Technical and Vocational Qualifications

Vocational qualifications prepare learners for a specific type of work. They are often hands-on and linked directly to an industry. Technical qualifications often combine classroom teaching with practical work.

Examples include:

• BTECs in areas such as engineering, health and social care, or IT
• City & Guilds qualifications for trades such as plumbing, catering, or hairdressing
• T Levels, which include extended industry placements of around 45 days

These qualifications give practical skills and the knowledge to start work or move on to higher study.

T Levels

T Levels are relatively new qualifications in England. They are equivalent to three A Levels and take two years to complete. Each T Level covers a specific career area, such as digital production, construction, or education.

Key features include:

• 80% classroom learning
• 20% industry placement
• Strong alignment with employer needs

They are suited to students who want a balance between academic learning and applying skills in the workplace.

Part-Time Study

Part-time study is a flexible option for adults or those balancing education with other responsibilities. It may involve attending classes in the evenings or at weekends.

Examples of part-time study include:

• GCSE or A Level courses
• Professional qualifications such as bookkeeping or management certificates
• Language classes

These courses can be taken for career progression, personal interest, or to gain qualifications needed for a new job.

Work-Based Learning

Work-based learning takes place primarily in a workplace setting. It may lead to qualifications like NVQs, where the learner demonstrates skills through real tasks. In this model, assessors visit the workplace to observe performance and check competency. This method allows people to gain qualifications without leaving their employment.

Access to Higher Education Diplomas

These are aimed at adults aged 19 and over who want to go to university but lack traditional qualifications such as A Levels. Access courses often take one year full-time or two years part-time. They prepare learners for degree-level study and cover areas such as health professions, social sciences, or business.

Higher Education

Higher education includes all study beyond Level 3, usually at a university or specialist college. Entry may be through A Levels, vocational qualifications, Access courses, or work experience.

Possible qualifications include:

• Higher National Certificates (HNCs) and Diplomas (HNDs)
• Foundation degrees
• Bachelor’s degrees
• Postgraduate qualifications for those continuing beyond undergraduate level

Higher education can lead to careers that require advanced knowledge or professional accreditation.

Training for Specific Careers

Some careers require training from recognised providers or awarding bodies. Examples are:

• Teacher training
• Professional cookery qualifications
• Counselling diplomas
• Driving instructor training

Entry requirements vary, and some courses may include licensing or registration with professional bodies.

Volunteering with Training

Volunteering can provide experience and help develop skills. Some volunteer programmes include structured training and recognised qualifications. This can be useful for young people who are undecided about long-term plans but want to build their CV.

Online and Distance Learning

Online learning offers flexible access to education. Courses may be provided by colleges, universities, or private training companies. Learning can be self-paced or follow a set timetable.

Qualifications available include GCSEs, A Levels, vocational certificates, and professional development courses.

Support for Learners with Additional Needs

Post-16 providers must make suitable arrangements for learners with special educational needs or disabilities. This could include extra help in class, learning support assistants, accessible resources, or tailored work placements.

Parents, carers, and professionals can work alongside the learner to match courses to abilities and aspirations.

Funding and Financial Support

Education and training can have costs. Young people aged 16 to 18 do not usually pay tuition fees for full-time study. Adults may have access to funding such as Advanced Learner Loans, bursaries, or grants. Some courses are free if the learner is unemployed or studying for essential skills like maths and English.

Financial support may include:

• Travel passes or subsidies
• Childcare grants for learners with children
• Support for equipment or uniform costs

Factors Affecting Choice

When choosing a post-16 option, learners may consider:

• Career goals and required qualifications
• Preferred learning style
• Location and travel time
• Entry requirements
• Costs and available funding
• Support options

Speaking with careers advisers, teachers, or training providers can help match the right option to individual needs.

Lifelong Learning

For adults, post-16 learning is not limited to formal education. Lifelong learning covers ongoing personal and professional development at any age. Courses could relate to hobbies, community activities, or workplace training. Lifelong learning helps adults stay adaptable, gain new skills, and engage in their communities.

Final Thoughts

Post-16 options offer a large and varied set of possibilities for young people and adults. Some prefer a traditional academic route, while others thrive in hands-on learning or workplace training. The important point is that there is no single path that suits everyone. What matters is finding an option that matches personal interests, abilities, and long-term plans.

By understanding all available routes, people can make informed choices about their future. Selecting the right pathway at this stage can open doors, develop confidence, and provide the skills needed for work or further study. A considered choice now can shape opportunities in years to come.