Post 18 Options
Post‑18 Options
Once you turn 18, you have more freedom to choose your next steps. Whether you want to study, work, gain experience or explore new opportunities, there’s a route for everyone.
🎓 1. Continue in Education
You can carry on studying full‑time or part‑time at university, college or a specialist provider.
Universities and colleges offer degree courses, foundation degrees, HNDs and higher technical qualifications.
👉 Useful links
- UCAS – University Courses & Applications: https://www.ucas.com
- Higher Technical Qualifications Info: https://nationalcareers.service.gov.uk/explore-your-education-and-training-choices/higher-technical-qualifications
🛠️ 2. Apprenticeships (including Higher & Degree Apprenticeships)
Work, earn and learn at the same time. Apprenticeships give you real‑world experience and a recognised qualification.
Higher and degree apprenticeships allow you to keep learning after 18 at an advanced level.
👉 Useful links
- Find an Apprenticeship: https://www.gov.uk/apply-apprenticeship
- UCAS – Apprenticeships: https://www.ucas.com/apprenticeships [gov.uk]
💼 3. Start Work
You can go straight into employment, take on an internship, or even start your own business.
Developing a CV and interview skills is especially important.
👉 Useful links
- National Careers Service – Job Advice: https://nationalcareers.service.gov.uk
- Find a Job: https://www.gov.uk/find-a-job
🎒 4. Combine Work and Study
Earn money while studying for a qualification.
Great for students who already know their career pathway and want experience plus training.
👉 Useful links
- Skills for Careers – Training Options: https://skillsforcareers.education.gov.uk
🌍 5. Take a Gap Year
You might choose to:
- Travel
- Work
- Volunteer
- Build skills before your next step
👉 Useful links
- UCAS – Gap Year Advice: https://www.ucas.com/gap-year [gov.uk]
🤝 6. Volunteering
Volunteering helps you gain new skills, build confidence and boost your CV or university application.
👉 Useful links
- Do‑it UK (Volunteering Opportunities): https://doit.life
🧩 7. Supported Internships (for students with SEND)
For young people aged 16–24 with SEND who need extra support to move into paid employment. These programmes are mostly based in the workplace.
👉 Useful links
- Supported Internships (UCAS Guide): https://www.ucas.com/supported-internships