Choices at 18

If you’re in the first year of College, Sixth Form or an Apprenticeship you might think that you’ve got loads of time before you have to start planning what you’re going to do next.  Whilst there’s no need to rush into making a definite decision just yet you can’t afford to be too laid back.  The planning and researching you’ll need to do is going to take both time and effort.

Some of the main options at 18+ include:

  • Apprenticeships - On an Apprenticeship you’d spend most of your time in the workplace with some time spent at either a college or training centre. Apprenticeships are available at 3 different levels and it’s possible to take them in a wide variety of occupations and industries.
  • Employment - Employment opportunities will vary depending on where you live and the type and level of work you’re looking for.  The wider and more flexible your search the more likely you are to find something suitable.
  • Further Education - An additional year in further education could be an option if you want to boost your grades, gain additional skills or improve existing ones.
  • Gap Year - Many young people choose to take a ‘gap year’ before continuing their learning or moving into employment. There are a range of things that you could do including travelling, volunteering or paid employment.
  • Higher Education - There are a range of Higher Education qualifications available in 100’s of different subjects and subject combinations. Higher Education takes a lot of commitment and can be costly so it needs careful thought, consideration and research.
  • Other options – These could include self employment and the Armed Forces (see website tab above for links).

For more information talk to your teachers or careers contact in school or call The National Careers Service on 0800 100 900. For local careers advice contact Careers Lincolnshire.

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Last updated: 10 April 2012

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