Supporting your child's school journey
7. School Years 12 and 13
School years 12 and 13 are for young people aged sixteen to eighteen years old, also known as Key Stage 5 (KS5).
What to expect
Key Stage 5 is the last stage of secondary education for those in sixth form or college, this is when:
- you will take your AS and A-Levels or BTECs
- you will choose what you will do after year 13
- some of your friends may leave school
What to do after year 13
You have multiple options to consider when you leave year 13. After your A-Level, T-Level and VTQ results you may want to:
- go to university or college
- do an apprenticeship
- get a job
- take some time out
Where can I get support
There is support and advice on helping to prepare you for school years 12 and 13, and what to expect during this time.
Buckinghamshire's Family Centres offer a range of courses and youth drop-ins offer to help and support teenagers.
You can find the different options available after your GCSEs in the post-16 education and training section which offers support and advice.
There's lots of financial help at college and university which you can apply for.
The SEND Local Offer also has information about the help available for young people with SEND in education.
Youthspace has lots of information, advice and support for young people aged 11 to 18 (up to 25 with SEND).
There are lots of Secondary educational resources for Secondary School children aged 12 to 18.
UCAS have lots of help and advice when applying to university or looking at other options like an apprenticeship.
Young Minds has lots of information including a guide to help you cope with exam stress and a guide to getting mental health support.
Health for Teens has lots of advice to support teens and their health, both mental and physical.