🎓 University / Higher Education

• Study for a degree at university in a subject area of interest.

• Opportunities to specialise, gain academic qualifications, and access careers that require a degree (e.g. medicine, teaching, law).

• Can be full-time, part-time, or even through distance learning.

• University League Tables 2026: Click here

💼 Apprenticeships

• Earn a salary while training and studying towards a qualification.

• Levels range from Higher Apprenticeships (Level 4/5) to Degree Apprenticeships (Level 6/7).

• Combines workplace experience with formal learning.

🎓 Higher Technical Qualifications (HTQs)

• Qualifications such as Higher National Certificates (HNCs) or Higher National Diplomas (HNDs), often taken at colleges or universities.

• Focused on practical Further Education

• Some students may choose an additional Level 3 qualification if changing pathway or improving grades.

• Specialist colleges (e.g. art, music, technology) can provide targeted progression routes.

🌍 Gap Year

• Time out before continuing education or work.

• Can involve travel, volunteering, work experience, or personal development opportunities.

• Often used to gain skills and clarity before committing to a long-term path.

👩‍💼 Employment

• Move directly into the workplace, often supported by on-the-job training.

• Can be full-time or combined with part-time study or professional qualifications.

⚖️ Other Routes

• School leaver programmes with large employers.

• Traineeships (short-term skills and work experience programmes).

• Volunteering (to build experience and transferable skills)