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No Wrong Route

Find the right route for you

Leaving school is a big step and the start of something new. After Year 11, you have the opportunity to choose a path that reflects who you are and what you enjoy. Whether you already have a plan or are still exploring, there are many ways to move forward and take your next step.

 

Remember:

  • Your journey is your own
  • Your strengths can take you further than you think
  • Your choices can open new opportunities

 Explore your options

There are a variety of routes you can take. Each one helps you to develop your skills and move closer to your future goals.

 

 

Foundation and supported learning

If you want to focus on building confidence, gaining qualifications and improving your maths and English, take a look at the following:

Local providers:

BTEC

These courses are best suited to those that prefer learning by doing and want to link learning directly to a career. 

Local providers:

T-Levels

Aged 16 to 19 and already achieved your GCSEs? Looking for a practical, career-focused route?

T-Levels give you a mix of real industry experience and classroom learning, helping you build the skills needed for a specific job or sector.

Local providers:

A-levels

A-levels are best suited to 16 to 19 year-olds who enjoy classroom learning and exploring subjects in depth. You will typically choose a small handful of subjects to study. A-levels are a great stepping stone if you're thinking of moving into higher education, such as university.

You must have completed your GCSEs (minimum of 5 at grades 4-9) to enroll on to an A-level course.

Local providers:

Apprenticeships

Want to learn on the job whilst getting paid? Apprenticeships might be the route for you!

Local providers:

You can also search and apply for local and national apprenticeships on the GOV website. 

Jobs or volunteering with training

Working or volunteering 20+ hours a week? That's a great way to build experience and develop new skills. 

If you're under 18, you also need to meet the Raising the Participation Age requirements. This means that having a job alone isn't enough, you need to be taking part in some form of education or training as well.

Don't worry, though. Many employers already include training as part of the job, such as inductions, health and safety courses, apprenticeships, or role-specific training. You could also study part-time alongside your job or volunteering role.

The training you complete can help you gain valuable skills, boost your confidence, work towards qualifications and prepare for your future career. So while you're earning, volunteering, or gaining experience, you're also continuing to learn and keeping your options open for the future.

Unsure of your options after you have left school?

Not sure about what you want to do next? Check out some of the in person and online support and advice:

Are you a parent/carer of a school leaver who isn't sure of their next steps? 

 

Blackpool Local Offer

Find information about what is available in Blackpool for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities, and their families. 

Blackpool Local Offer