Whatever their age or circumstances, young people in and leaving care have many choices to make regarding their future – should they stay in education to gain more qualifications, or should they enter the working world? For many young people, this decision will be based on following a career ambition; for others it may be about studying subjects that interest them. As well as improving their career options, further education (FE) and higher education (HE) will give them the opportunity to try out new things, study new subjects, meet new people and develop their self confidence.
Further Education
There is a wide variety of options open to young people at age 16 ranging from A Levels to Key Skills. Each qualification is taught and structured slightly differently, so it is important that young people choose the qualification that best suits their interests and learning styles. If they are intending to go on to HE, then it is important to find out which qualifications are required for particular courses.
Work-based Learning
Work-based learning gives young people the opportunity to work and learn at the same time. This gives them the opportunity to improve their skills and their future earning potential. The most popular qualification routes are NVQs and Apprenticeships. Training can last from 1 to 4 years depending on ability, the job they are training for and how far they want to go.
Higher Education
Some young people in and leaving care think that they are ‘not good enough’ or they need ‘really high grades’ to go on to HE; in fact they only need determination, enthusiasm, a good application and Level 3 qualifications. Graduates are likely to earn significantly more than non-graduates over the course of their lifetime. These days more and more jobs require higher education qualifications. Employers recognise that graduates tend to be self-motivated and have well-developed analytical skills and problem-solving abilities.
