Post 16 Options
Your Post‑16 Options: What You Can Do After Year 11
In England, you must stay in education or training until you’re 18, but that doesn’t mean you have to stay in school. Here are the main choices available to you:
📘 1. Stay in Full‑Time Education
You can continue learning at:
- School Sixth Form
- Sixth‑Form College
- Further Education (FE) College
Common courses include:
A Levels
Academic subjects, usually studied over two years. Great if you enjoy classroom learning and might want to go to university.
You can study A Levels at -
Guilsborough Academy - Welcome to GASF
Northampton School for Boys - SIXTH FORM APPLICATION INFORMATION FOR SEPTEMBER 2026
Northampton School for Girls - SIXTH FORM
A Levels | Northampton College
T Levels
T Levels | The Next Level Qualification
A mix of classroom learning and industry experience. Equivalent to 3 A Levels and perfect if you like practical learning linked to real careers.
You can study T Levels here -
Rugby College - WCG - Warwickshire College
Northampton College | Full and part time courses | Adult Courses | HE | Apprenticeships
Vocational Courses (e.g., BTECs)
Practical, career‑focused qualifications that help you develop skills for specific jobs.
Northampton College | Full and part time courses | Adult Courses | HE | Apprenticeships
Rugby College - WCG - Warwickshire College
🔧 2. Apprenticeships
Earn money while you learn!
You work for an employer and study towards a recognised qualification at the same time. Available in many industries from the age of 16.
Search for Apprenticeships here -
Search apprenticeship – Find an apprenticeship – GOV.UK
🚀 3. Work or Volunteer + Part‑Time Study
You can:
- Work or volunteer for 20 hours or more each week,
and - Do part‑time education or training towards a regulated qualification.
This is a good option if you want real‑world experience while still learning.
⭐ Why These Options Matter
Staying in education or training helps you:
- Build important skills
- Increase future job and earning opportunities
- Keep your options open for college, university, or work
Parents Guides to Post 16 Options
Driver's Manual: this booklet from The Careers People helps you to figure out what your best next step might be after Year 11.