Post-16 education and training
Combining work with part-time study or training
You can improve your skills and confidence, get work experience and gain the qualifications that employers need. You may also be able to earn a wage.
You can choose between:
- starting an apprenticeship or school leaver programme
- starting an internship
- starting a traineeship
- working or volunteering while training or studying part-time
Starting a traineeship
A traineeship is an education or training programme that includes a work placement. It will help you prepare to do an apprenticeship or a job. You can also improve your maths and English skills.
If you have already had some work experience, you might be ready to do an apprenticeship instead.
Starting an apprenticeship
Apprenticeships combine learning practical skills with studying for a qualification. You’ll get training that’s relevant to your job and you’ll receive a wage. There are four different levels:
- intermediate level apprenticeship - equivalent to 5 GCSE passes
- advanced level apprenticeship - equivalent to 2 A level passes
- higher apprenticeship - opportunity to gain a NVQ Level 4 and above or a foundation degree.
- degree apprenticeships - combines working with studying part-time at a university for a full bachelor’s or master’s degree.
School leaver programme
School leaver programmes are a direct route to the world of work. They are offered by some larger companies in sectors like accountancy, engineering and construction. They are usually aimed at students leaving college or sixth form at 18. If you’re 16, you may still be able to find a school leaver programme to suit you.
A typical school leaver programme will last between 12 months and 5 years. Companies offering school leaver programmes may sponsor or part-sponsor you to study for qualifications relevant to the job while you work for the company full- or part-time. You will be paid a wage.
You should speak to your school’s career advisor to find out more information about school leaver programmes.
Care leavers internship scheme
This scheme offers young people leaving care with the opportunity to gain experience of working in central government departments.
The internships last for 12 months and are paid. They aim to help young people leaving care to develop the skills and experience they need to go into long-term jobs.
You can find out more information about the scheme.
Support services for students in Buckinghamshire
Local organisations and services that offer support.
Routes to Work: Building Futures and the Oasis Partnership
The support provided through this partnership includes advice and skills development to help young people move towards employment through:
- Routes to work
- health and wellbeing
- weekly work search drop-ins
- volunteering
- and Tech Launchpad across Buckinghamshire.