Sometimes it might feel like school isn’t that important, but the truth is education is all about opportunities. Every lesson you learn and every skill you develop opens doors for your future.
Getting a good education gives you choices. It means you can decide to go to university, explore exciting careers, or even start your own business one day. Without education, many of these options simply aren’t possible. Think of education like a key—it unlocks paths that lead to your dreams.
So, when you work hard in school —you’re building the foundation for the life you want. The more you learn now, the more freedom you’ll have later to choose your own path when you are older.
What are the other benefits of education?
Education is not just about qualifications, it is also about equipping you with the skills you need to understand, evaluate and navigate the world as an adult. For example, having a good education helps you be smart about the news you read, watch, or hear and know how to spot the truth, find fake or misleading stories, and tell the difference between facts and opinions.
Having a good level of education also helps you to learn about saving, spending, and making smart choices with money.
A few years ago, The National Literacy Trust looked at how reading skills and money skills are connected. Here’s what they found:
Kids who have a good level of reading are 4 times more likely to be good with money than kids who struggle with reading.
Kids who are behind their peers in reading are 4 times more likely to also find money stuff hard.
Having a good level of education also helps:
You have the skills to learn more about what is happening in the world and be more curious.
Gives you the knowledge to ask questions instead of believing everything you see or are told.
Encourages you to get involved in your community because you understand and care about real issues.
Helps you solve problems
Why is school important?
School is important for lots of different reasons, it's not just a place to learn, here are a few reasons why school is important;
• School can allow you to enhance your self-esteem and gives you a wider sense of choice • The friends you meet now at school may be the friends you go through life with • You will develop new skills and improve the ones you already have • You will have wider access to lots of different options after school, if you stick with and get the right grades • You will be more likely to achieve in your chosen career if you succeed at school
Schools are not perfect and you might encounter problems at school sometimes. Young Minds have a guide for young people on tackling different issues at school.
Why is school important?
School is important for lots of different reasons, it's not just a place to learn, here are a few reasons why school is important;
• School can allow you to enhance your self-esteem and gives you a wider sense of choice • The friends you meet now at school may be the friends you go through life with • You will develop new skills and improve the ones you already have • You will have wider access to lots of different options after school, if you stick with and get the right grades • You will be more likely to achieve in your chosen career if you succeed at school
Schools are not perfect and you might encounter problems at school sometimes. Young Minds have a guide for young people on tackling different issues at school.
Retaking your GCSEs
It's government legislation that you have to have a least a C in both Maths and English, with some colleges requiring you to have at least 5 A*-C grades to get in. If you didn't quite get the results you wanted then don't panic there are lots of options when it comes to retaking.
What are my options?
Retaking in further education: If you are going to school, sixth-form or college then you should be able to retake your GCSE(s) alongside the courses you have chosen. Speak to your teacher or college advisor about the possibility of retaking at school, college or sixth-form and they should be able to advise you on what to do. Retaking your GCSEs whilst working: (Working may include; starting an apprenticeship, work experience or a full or part-time job)
There are lots of options if you need to retake: • Night school - schools or colleges may hold evening classes where you can retake your GCSE(s) this can be a flexible option that will fit round work • Distance learning - this option may suit you if you are working full time as you can study for your GCSE(s) online with the help of course materials being posted to you, you will need to register with an approved college so you can take your GCSE(s) onsite with them • Day release - if your employer agrees then you will be required to spend a working day in your local college or learning provider working towards retaking your GCSE(s)
What happens if I'm not going to college or starting work? • Approach your local sixth-form, previous school or college and ask if you can re-sit (speak to a teacher or college advisor first to make sure this is possible) • Speak to the Exams Officer at your local school or college and ask about the possibility of being a private candidate
Being a private Candidate: • You will need to make sure that you will be accepted as a private candidate at your local school, college or learning provider • You will have to pay a fee of £30 along with the admin fee charged by the place you are re-sitting • Make sure you register for the retake before 21 February to be eligible • Look into what type of teaching is available, otherwise you may need a 1-1 tutor who can coach you • If you know other young people in the same position, retaking the same GCSE, speak to them about sharing a tutor cost
Retaking your GCSEs
It's government legislation that you have to have a least a C in both Maths and English, with some colleges requiring you to have at least 5 A*-C grades to get in. If you didn't quite get the results you wanted then don't panic there are lots of options when it comes to retaking.
What are my options?
Retaking in further education: If you are going to school, sixth-form or college then you should be able to retake your GCSE(s) alongside the courses you have chosen. Speak to your teacher or college advisor about the possibility of retaking at school, college or sixth-form and they should be able to advise you on what to do. Retaking your GCSEs whilst working: (Working may include; starting an apprenticeship, work experience or a full or part-time job)
There are lots of options if you need to retake: • Night school - schools or colleges may hold evening classes where you can retake your GCSE(s) this can be a flexible option that will fit round work • Distance learning - this option may suit you if you are working full time as you can study for your GCSE(s) online with the help of course materials being posted to you, you will need to register with an approved college so you can take your GCSE(s) onsite with them • Day release - if your employer agrees then you will be required to spend a working day in your local college or learning provider working towards retaking your GCSE(s)
What happens if I'm not going to college or starting work? • Approach your local sixth-form, previous school or college and ask if you can re-sit (speak to a teacher or college advisor first to make sure this is possible) • Speak to the Exams Officer at your local school or college and ask about the possibility of being a private candidate
Being a private Candidate: • You will need to make sure that you will be accepted as a private candidate at your local school, college or learning provider • You will have to pay a fee of £30 along with the admin fee charged by the place you are re-sitting • Make sure you register for the retake before 21 February to be eligible • Look into what type of teaching is available, otherwise you may need a 1-1 tutor who can coach you • If you know other young people in the same position, retaking the same GCSE, speak to them about sharing a tutor cost
If you are thinking about going to college have a think about what subjects you find interesting and enjoyable and how they might affect your choices if you are thinking about going to university or work after college.
If you don't think full time college would suit you there are quite a few different options that incorporate work based learning and practical vocational learning.
Colleges hold open days which are a great opportunity to have a look around, find out more about the courses and find out what it's like to study there. You can also search their websites and prospectus to find out more.
See below for the qualifications you can study for at college.
AS-Levels: Are the first part of studying towards your A-Levels, although they can be taken as a stand alone qualifications, most students are encouraged to take four AS-Levels but there is an option to drop one when you move to your A-Levels.
NVQs (National Vocational Qualifications): Is a work based qualification designed to measure how well you work in a professional role, you will most likely have an assessor that will come into your workplace and will help you with the assignments and assess you, they will aim to see you at least once every four weeks, a typical NVQ can last over a year.
BTEC Qualifications: Is a vocational course or work related course, it's a practical approach to learning that ensures that you don't miss out on any of the theory of the subject, it will also allow you to progress further if you want to access higher education.
Apprenticeships: Being an apprentice mixes practical training with a job. You will develop transferable skills, such as working in teams, problem-solving and communication, as well as earning a wage. You will also be working towards a recognised Apprenticeship Programme.
It's Never too late...
You may not have made it to college for various reasons, but now you feel ready to explore the opportunities that college can give you and there are loads of opportunities out there. You don't have to do a full-time course, you could be wanting to re-sit your GCSEs or learn a new skill in the evening; colleges have a lot to offer.
If you are thinking about going to college have a think about what subjects you find interesting and enjoyable and how they might affect your choices if you are thinking about going to university or work after college.
If you don't think full time college would suit you there are quite a few different options that incorporate work based learning and practical vocational learning.
Colleges hold open days which are a great opportunity to have a look around, find out more about the courses and find out what it's like to study there. You can also search their websites and prospectus to find out more.
See below for the qualifications you can study for at college.
AS-Levels: Are the first part of studying towards your A-Levels, although they can be taken as a stand alone qualifications, most students are encouraged to take four AS-Levels but there is an option to drop one when you move to your A-Levels.
NVQs (National Vocational Qualifications): Is a work based qualification designed to measure how well you work in a professional role, you will most likely have an assessor that will come into your workplace and will help you with the assignments and assess you, they will aim to see you at least once every four weeks, a typical NVQ can last over a year.
BTEC Qualifications: Is a vocational course or work related course, it's a practical approach to learning that ensures that you don't miss out on any of the theory of the subject, it will also allow you to progress further if you want to access higher education.
Apprenticeships: Being an apprentice mixes practical training with a job. You will develop transferable skills, such as working in teams, problem-solving and communication, as well as earning a wage. You will also be working towards a recognised Apprenticeship Programme.
It's Never too late...
You may not have made it to college for various reasons, but now you feel ready to explore the opportunities that college can give you and there are loads of opportunities out there. You don't have to do a full-time course, you could be wanting to re-sit your GCSEs or learn a new skill in the evening; colleges have a lot to offer.
If you would like to go to university have a think about what subjects you find interesting and enjoyable, and the job you might like to do in the future.
Here are some top tips about choosing courses and universities:
take plenty of time to see what courses are on offer - you can look at university prospectuses online, or request them via phone or email
discuss options with your teachers, college tutors, social worker, family and friends
go to careers fairs for ideas
attend university open days to get a feel for different places
find out about the areas universities are located in
What is UCAS?
UCAS is the central processing organisation that helps you apply for the course you want. You will apply for up to five different choices through UCAS and these will remain confidential, you should apply by the middle of January of the same year you would be starting university.
College will support you in accessing UCAS and applying for courses.
What happens if I don't get my chosen university?
Firstly don't panic, universities are well equipped to deal with this, if you don't get into any of your chosen universities you will go through Clearing.
What is clearing?
Clearing is a way of matching students that did not get offered a place at any of their chosen universities, to universities that have spaces on their courses.
Below are some top tips:
Don't go on holiday when your results are due out (tempting as it sounds) you will need to be around, unless you are absolutely certain you have got the right grades
If you don't get a place at any of your chosen universities, get dialling. By phoning universities they can take down all your details and in some cases can you there and then whether or not they can accept you on to the course
Universities will have a high number of calls on results day but don't let that put you off, keep ringing you can also email them as well, although phoning will be the best way to get through
Finally, and although this sounds obvious, try and avoid Clearing. Be realistic about you applications and what you will be predicted to get, apply to universities that you are confident you will be able to get into and accept offers
Have a look at the links provided and the video below for more information on Clearing.
University Accommodation:
Many universities will offer accommodation on campus, in city centre locations or close to the campus, depending on where your university is. University accommodation can come in many different forms, below is a snapshot of the typical type of accommodation you may encounter:
University Halls:
Hall can be large buildings that can accommodate up to 800 or more students or smaller units that are together to form student 'villages' these can be located on campus or off.
There will be options of en-suite and shared bathrooms, obviously an en-suite would be more desirable but it can increase the rent you need to pay.
The majority of halls will be self-catering, so brush up on your cooking skills
Accommodation will be either single or mixed sex (you all get separate rooms)
You will only live in Halls for the first year
You will most likely live in your accommodation for 40 weeks of the year, vacating in the summer
Private Accommodation:
In your 2nd and 3rd year you may move to private accommodation. This will be provided by landlords who may be a national company or a smaller local agent. You can also live in Private Accommodation in your 1st year if you don't want to live in Halls.
If you don't fancy living in halls in your first year then private accommodation in a shared house also gives you that 'Hall's' experience but on a smaller scale
Student houses can be one person apartments to 10 bed houses depending on the town/city you choose to go to university in
Have a look at transport links to university in the area you have chosen to live
Have a look at the links provided for more information on private rented accommodation.
What financial support can I get?
You may be eligible for student finance to help you study at university or college.
For example, you may be able to apply for:
a Tuition Fee Loan to help pay the course tuition fees charged by your university or college
a Maintenance Loan to help pay for things like rent, food, books, travel and other living costs
Tuition Fee Loans are paid directly to your university or college. Maintenance Loans are paid into your bank account.
Any loan you borrow needs to be paid back, but not until you’ve finished or left your course, and you earn over a certain amount.
You can find out more, including if you are eligible on the Gov.uk website.
If you have a disability, you may also receive the Disabled Students' Allowance.
Other support:
Some universities offer some sort of mentor service to students who are having problems. If you feel like you need extra support, contact your university's student services department.
Learning support is offered by almost all universities and provides help such as extra tutorials and special arrangements for exams. For more information contact your university.
Vaccinations:
If your going to university in September you may want to consider having the Men (meningitis) ACWY vaccination, which will protect you against the four groups of meningococcal bacteria A, C, W, and Y.
The vaccination is particularly important for those preparing to head off to university as they are at greatest risk of infection, this is due to the high amount of people in close contact in shared accommodation, such as halls of residence.
Teenagers are more likely to carry meningococcal bacteria in the back of their throats. Giving the vaccine to new university students will directly protect this age group and reduce the chance of the bacteria spreading to others.
Going to University
If you would like to go to university have a think about what subjects you find interesting and enjoyable, and the job you might like to do in the future.
Here are some top tips about choosing courses and universities:
take plenty of time to see what courses are on offer - you can look at university prospectuses online, or request them via phone or email
discuss options with your teachers, college tutors, social worker, family and friends
go to careers fairs for ideas
attend university open days to get a feel for different places
find out about the areas universities are located in
What is UCAS?
UCAS is the central processing organisation that helps you apply for the course you want. You will apply for up to five different choices through UCAS and these will remain confidential, you should apply by the middle of January of the same year you would be starting university.
College will support you in accessing UCAS and applying for courses.
What happens if I don't get my chosen university?
Firstly don't panic, universities are well equipped to deal with this, if you don't get into any of your chosen universities you will go through Clearing.
What is clearing?
Clearing is a way of matching students that did not get offered a place at any of their chosen universities, to universities that have spaces on their courses.
Below are some top tips:
Don't go on holiday when your results are due out (tempting as it sounds) you will need to be around, unless you are absolutely certain you have got the right grades
If you don't get a place at any of your chosen universities, get dialling. By phoning universities they can take down all your details and in some cases can you there and then whether or not they can accept you on to the course
Universities will have a high number of calls on results day but don't let that put you off, keep ringing you can also email them as well, although phoning will be the best way to get through
Finally, and although this sounds obvious, try and avoid Clearing. Be realistic about you applications and what you will be predicted to get, apply to universities that you are confident you will be able to get into and accept offers
Have a look at the links provided and the video below for more information on Clearing.
University Accommodation:
Many universities will offer accommodation on campus, in city centre locations or close to the campus, depending on where your university is. University accommodation can come in many different forms, below is a snapshot of the typical type of accommodation you may encounter:
University Halls:
Hall can be large buildings that can accommodate up to 800 or more students or smaller units that are together to form student 'villages' these can be located on campus or off.
There will be options of en-suite and shared bathrooms, obviously an en-suite would be more desirable but it can increase the rent you need to pay.
The majority of halls will be self-catering, so brush up on your cooking skills
Accommodation will be either single or mixed sex (you all get separate rooms)
You will only live in Halls for the first year
You will most likely live in your accommodation for 40 weeks of the year, vacating in the summer
Private Accommodation:
In your 2nd and 3rd year you may move to private accommodation. This will be provided by landlords who may be a national company or a smaller local agent. You can also live in Private Accommodation in your 1st year if you don't want to live in Halls.
If you don't fancy living in halls in your first year then private accommodation in a shared house also gives you that 'Hall's' experience but on a smaller scale
Student houses can be one person apartments to 10 bed houses depending on the town/city you choose to go to university in
Have a look at transport links to university in the area you have chosen to live
Have a look at the links provided for more information on private rented accommodation.
What financial support can I get?
You may be eligible for student finance to help you study at university or college.
For example, you may be able to apply for:
a Tuition Fee Loan to help pay the course tuition fees charged by your university or college
a Maintenance Loan to help pay for things like rent, food, books, travel and other living costs
Tuition Fee Loans are paid directly to your university or college. Maintenance Loans are paid into your bank account.
Any loan you borrow needs to be paid back, but not until you’ve finished or left your course, and you earn over a certain amount.
You can find out more, including if you are eligible on the Gov.uk website.
If you have a disability, you may also receive the Disabled Students' Allowance.
Other support:
Some universities offer some sort of mentor service to students who are having problems. If you feel like you need extra support, contact your university's student services department.
Learning support is offered by almost all universities and provides help such as extra tutorials and special arrangements for exams. For more information contact your university.
Vaccinations:
If your going to university in September you may want to consider having the Men (meningitis) ACWY vaccination, which will protect you against the four groups of meningococcal bacteria A, C, W, and Y.
The vaccination is particularly important for those preparing to head off to university as they are at greatest risk of infection, this is due to the high amount of people in close contact in shared accommodation, such as halls of residence.
Teenagers are more likely to carry meningococcal bacteria in the back of their throats. Giving the vaccine to new university students will directly protect this age group and reduce the chance of the bacteria spreading to others.
Getting a job can be a step in the right direction when it comes to having your own independence.
You can get a job doing 'light work' such as a paper round from the age of 13, and although you have to stay in education when you leave school; you can still go into employment, but will be required to attend college or do work based learning during the month. More information can be found on the Going to College page.
If your over 18 and are considering your first job, or an employment change take a look at our Writing a CV and Covering Letter and Job Hunting and Interviews page's for tips and ideas.
Work Experience:
Some schools may still offer work experience opportunities in year 10 and 11 although some may not. However, you can find your own work experience that you could do during the school holidays. The benefits are:
You can try out an area of work that interests you
You will learn new skills and meet new people
It helps you to decide if it's the right job for you
It might lead you to a part-time or full-time job later
You can gain a valuable reference from an employer
Find out about work experience opportunities at Hampshire County Council
How to find out about work experience placements:
Decide what you would like to do
Ask the people you know - your family, friends & neighbours
Search local newspapers for jobs that interest you and local companies
Use websites to research local businesses, such as online directories
Write a CV and a letter that you can post or give to an employer - this shows you are serious about doing a placement
Remember - if you are going to see an employer face-to-face, dress appropriately and think about what you are going to say so they get a good impression of you
Getting a job can be a step in the right direction when it comes to having your own independence.
You can get a job doing 'light work' such as a paper round from the age of 13, and although you have to stay in education when you leave school; you can still go into employment, but will be required to attend college or do work based learning during the month. More information can be found on the Going to College page.
If your over 18 and are considering your first job, or an employment change take a look at our Writing a CV and Covering Letter and Job Hunting and Interviews page's for tips and ideas.
Work Experience:
Some schools may still offer work experience opportunities in year 10 and 11 although some may not. However, you can find your own work experience that you could do during the school holidays. The benefits are:
You can try out an area of work that interests you
You will learn new skills and meet new people
It helps you to decide if it's the right job for you
It might lead you to a part-time or full-time job later
You can gain a valuable reference from an employer
Find out about work experience opportunities at Hampshire County Council
How to find out about work experience placements:
Decide what you would like to do
Ask the people you know - your family, friends & neighbours
Search local newspapers for jobs that interest you and local companies
Use websites to research local businesses, such as online directories
Write a CV and a letter that you can post or give to an employer - this shows you are serious about doing a placement
Remember - if you are going to see an employer face-to-face, dress appropriately and think about what you are going to say so they get a good impression of you
Thinking about doing an apprenticeship?
Vacancies will advertised in lots of different places, you might find out about them through college or school, they may be advertised locally or you can search for them online.
You can apply for an apprenticeship if you are:
aged 16 or over
eligible to work in England
not in full-time education
Work and Study
you will be working alongside experienced staff
you will gain a lot of job specific knowledge and skills
you will earn a wage
you will be studying towards a related qualification and will spend 20% off the job doing training
Levels of apprenticeships
There are three different levels of apprenticeships in England:
intermediate - equivalent to five GCSEs
advanced - equivalent to two A-Levels
higher - from level 4 to Master Degree level
Qualifications
Your apprenticeships can lead to:
a qualification from Level 2-7
a Functional Skills qualification in Maths, ICT or English for example
If you're 16-24 years, with a minimum grade D/3 GCSE equivalent in maths or English this is a great opportunity develop your work place skills and provide that extra bit of experience to boost your CV and help you grab your first job. If you are thinking of applying for an Apprenticeship our programme will provide support to reach that goal.
Traineeship plus offers you:
an action-packed induction programme preparing you for the world of work
dedicated members of staff to support you through the process
valuable work experience with Hampshire County Council or a partner organisation
an opportunity to work towards qualifications
improve your English and maths through engaging and interesting activities
the chance to develop skills and experience that will make you more attractive to future employers
support plan your next steps following completion of the programme
Apprenticeships at Hampshire County Council
Hampshire County Council is recruiting apprentices to work in teams across the County Council in roles such as mechanics, rangers, teaching assistants, museums, customer service's, business administration and in our laboratories. Hampshire Futures offers a direct delivery training programme in some of these areas.
Successful applicants must be able to demonstrate a keen interest in the work of the County Council, be willing to learn and committed to undertaking a full apprenticeship programme.
The programme supports young people working towards a professional and rewarding career, delivers hands-on training and supported learning to help young people develop skills for the job, as well as the opportunity to gain a nationally recognised qualification alongside English and Maths support if required.
Successful completion of the programme could result in being offered a permanent position within the County Council and opportunities for future professional development.
Vacancies will advertised in lots of different places, you might find out about them through college or school, they may be advertised locally or you can search for them online.
You can apply for an apprenticeship if you are:
aged 16 or over
eligible to work in England
not in full-time education
Work and Study
you will be working alongside experienced staff
you will gain a lot of job specific knowledge and skills
you will earn a wage
you will be studying towards a related qualification and will spend 20% off the job doing training
Levels of apprenticeships
There are three different levels of apprenticeships in England:
intermediate - equivalent to five GCSEs
advanced - equivalent to two A-Levels
higher - from level 4 to Master Degree level
Qualifications
Your apprenticeships can lead to:
a qualification from Level 2-7
a Functional Skills qualification in Maths, ICT or English for example
If you're 16-24 years, with a minimum grade D/3 GCSE equivalent in maths or English this is a great opportunity develop your work place skills and provide that extra bit of experience to boost your CV and help you grab your first job. If you are thinking of applying for an Apprenticeship our programme will provide support to reach that goal.
Traineeship plus offers you:
an action-packed induction programme preparing you for the world of work
dedicated members of staff to support you through the process
valuable work experience with Hampshire County Council or a partner organisation
an opportunity to work towards qualifications
improve your English and maths through engaging and interesting activities
the chance to develop skills and experience that will make you more attractive to future employers
support plan your next steps following completion of the programme
Apprenticeships at Hampshire County Council
Hampshire County Council is recruiting apprentices to work in teams across the County Council in roles such as mechanics, rangers, teaching assistants, museums, customer service's, business administration and in our laboratories. Hampshire Futures offers a direct delivery training programme in some of these areas.
Successful applicants must be able to demonstrate a keen interest in the work of the County Council, be willing to learn and committed to undertaking a full apprenticeship programme.
The programme supports young people working towards a professional and rewarding career, delivers hands-on training and supported learning to help young people develop skills for the job, as well as the opportunity to gain a nationally recognised qualification alongside English and Maths support if required.
Successful completion of the programme could result in being offered a permanent position within the County Council and opportunities for future professional development.
The future of our society depends on you and your peers, so in order for you to start your adult life with all the skills, qualities and attributes you will need to succeed, you will now continue your education or training until the academic year in which you turn 18.
This is known as raising the participation age, the Government's policy to give all young people the opportunity to develop skills and qualifications, secure employment or progress to higher education. This may sound alarming but it's there to give you the best chance at achieving your goals and going on to be successful at whatever you choose to do in your adult life.
When you finish secondary school, there are many choices including:
Full-time education at college, sixth form college or school sixth form
Work based learning such as an apprenticeship or foundation learning
Part-time education or training if you are employed, self employed or volunteer for 20 hours or more a week
Take time to research which option is best for you. Here are some tips:
What learning style suits you best? Do you like being in a classroom? Do you prefer practical subjects? Do you prefer exams or course work, or a mixture of both?
What are your strengths and weaknesses? Which subjects do you enjoy?
What would you like to do in the future? Think about where the course, work based learning or job will take you?
The Government have proposed through raising the participation age that:
All young people should participate in education or training until their 18th birthday
Participation should be at school, college or work based training that is provided by an employer
In order for you to be participating you will be working towards accredited exams
You will either be studying full-time if you're not employed or if you are employed and working over 20 hours then your study will be part-time
The future of our society depends on you and your peers, so in order for you to start your adult life with all the skills, qualities and attributes you will need to succeed, you will now continue your education or training until the academic year in which you turn 18.
This is known as raising the participation age, the Government's policy to give all young people the opportunity to develop skills and qualifications, secure employment or progress to higher education. This may sound alarming but it's there to give you the best chance at achieving your goals and going on to be successful at whatever you choose to do in your adult life.
When you finish secondary school, there are many choices including:
Full-time education at college, sixth form college or school sixth form
Work based learning such as an apprenticeship or foundation learning
Part-time education or training if you are employed, self employed or volunteer for 20 hours or more a week
Take time to research which option is best for you. Here are some tips:
What learning style suits you best? Do you like being in a classroom? Do you prefer practical subjects? Do you prefer exams or course work, or a mixture of both?
What are your strengths and weaknesses? Which subjects do you enjoy?
What would you like to do in the future? Think about where the course, work based learning or job will take you?
The Government have proposed through raising the participation age that:
All young people should participate in education or training until their 18th birthday
Participation should be at school, college or work based training that is provided by an employer
In order for you to be participating you will be working towards accredited exams
You will either be studying full-time if you're not employed or if you are employed and working over 20 hours then your study will be part-time
On this page you will find opportunities across Hampshire that may be of interest to you. These will be updated regularly so keep coming back as we don't want you to miss out!
Join In with Hampshire & Isle of Wight:
Do you enjoy helping others? Want to make a difference in your local area? Maybe you have some skills you want to use of fancy learning some new one? Need to gain experience or inject some life into your CV? Or maybe you'd just like to get out more and meet some new friends?
Remember the Olympics and Commonwealth games? Well none of it would of happened without the 70,000+ volunteers who gave up their time to help make the events happen. Volunteering in sport doesn't necessarily mean playing sport. It means helping others to play sport. You would volunteer for your local under 8's football team and help out with training, or design and maintain a webpage for the local tennis club, or maybe you'll pull on your waterproof's and stand out in the street directing marathon runners? There are 1000's of local sports clubs and groups in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, who all need volunteers to exist.
All our vacancies are on website, and when you register on our site you can create your own profile to log your volunteering and create a volunteer CV.
As well as all our local opportunities you could volunteer at major national and international events. Fancy a trip to Rio? You could volunteer for the Olympic Games in 2016. Join In are a national organisation who support local, national and international events through our partnership; we are hoping to help as many people as we can to volunteer both locally, nationally and internationally.
Are you aged 13-30 and looking to make a change in your life? If you're unemployed or struggling at school, The Prince's Trust can help you in a number of ways, including free training courses, brand new experiences, support, mentoring and finance.
Have you ever considered a job in horse racing? Being top Jockey, leading in the winner or training a horse to win are some of the things you could be doing if you choose racing as a career path.
The British Racing School offers a free residential course to young people aged between 16 and 22. At the end of the course you will be guaranteed a full-time job in the horse racing industry. The course is open to complete beginners so don't worry if you cannot ride, tuition will be given on the course.
Apprenticeship courses at the British Racing School fill up really quickly, so if your interested, get your application in quick.
The AQA Unit Award Scheme (UAS) is a unique recording of achievement scheme, offering you the chance to have your achievements formally recognised.
The UAS are highly valued by employers, colleges and universities.
The Hampshire Fostering Network (HFN) have selected 23 of the AQA units from the UAS that focus on 5 key areas, that are beneficial to you becoming independent:
Finance
Cooking & Hygiene
Personal Development
Household
Health
The HFN have created worksheets for each unit to make things clear and achievable. If your interested in taking part there is more information on this site, your carer/social worker should be able to help you access this.
On this page you will find opportunities across Hampshire that may be of interest to you. These will be updated regularly so keep coming back as we don't want you to miss out!
Join In with Hampshire & Isle of Wight:
Do you enjoy helping others? Want to make a difference in your local area? Maybe you have some skills you want to use of fancy learning some new one? Need to gain experience or inject some life into your CV? Or maybe you'd just like to get out more and meet some new friends?
Remember the Olympics and Commonwealth games? Well none of it would of happened without the 70,000+ volunteers who gave up their time to help make the events happen. Volunteering in sport doesn't necessarily mean playing sport. It means helping others to play sport. You would volunteer for your local under 8's football team and help out with training, or design and maintain a webpage for the local tennis club, or maybe you'll pull on your waterproof's and stand out in the street directing marathon runners? There are 1000's of local sports clubs and groups in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, who all need volunteers to exist.
All our vacancies are on website, and when you register on our site you can create your own profile to log your volunteering and create a volunteer CV.
As well as all our local opportunities you could volunteer at major national and international events. Fancy a trip to Rio? You could volunteer for the Olympic Games in 2016. Join In are a national organisation who support local, national and international events through our partnership; we are hoping to help as many people as we can to volunteer both locally, nationally and internationally.
Are you aged 13-30 and looking to make a change in your life? If you're unemployed or struggling at school, The Prince's Trust can help you in a number of ways, including free training courses, brand new experiences, support, mentoring and finance.
Have you ever considered a job in horse racing? Being top Jockey, leading in the winner or training a horse to win are some of the things you could be doing if you choose racing as a career path.
The British Racing School offers a free residential course to young people aged between 16 and 22. At the end of the course you will be guaranteed a full-time job in the horse racing industry. The course is open to complete beginners so don't worry if you cannot ride, tuition will be given on the course.
Apprenticeship courses at the British Racing School fill up really quickly, so if your interested, get your application in quick.
The AQA Unit Award Scheme (UAS) is a unique recording of achievement scheme, offering you the chance to have your achievements formally recognised.
The UAS are highly valued by employers, colleges and universities.
The Hampshire Fostering Network (HFN) have selected 23 of the AQA units from the UAS that focus on 5 key areas, that are beneficial to you becoming independent:
Finance
Cooking & Hygiene
Personal Development
Household
Health
The HFN have created worksheets for each unit to make things clear and achievable. If your interested in taking part there is more information on this site, your carer/social worker should be able to help you access this.
Employability skills training – CVs, interview skills, effective job hunt
Hospitality related certified e-learning
121 mentoring and coaching
Guaranteed interviews with hospitality employers recruiting now
Hospitality related accredited qualifications
Pupil Premium:
Pupil Premium is there as a pot of money that can be accessed by schools and the Virtual School to make sure you are getting the right educational support during the school year.
If you have been in the care of Hampshire County Council for more than one day you will be eligible. You will also be eligible if you have left care and have been; adopted, a special guardianship order, child arrangement order or a residence order.
This bursary is intended to help students pay for education-related costs, this includes:
equipment or uniform for college courses
lunch
a laptop
As a looked after child you are entitled to the full £1,200 a year bursary.
It is intended for students who are aged 16 to 19, however if you are older and in full-time education, the bursary is paid directly by your school, college or training provider and the best way to apply for it would be to speak directly to your school/college and they should be able to help you apply.
Entitlement to level 2 & level 3 fee remission
The Level 2 fee remission is for students aged 19 to 23 (on the course start date) who are undertaking a Level 2 course who do not already have a full Level 2 qualification.
A full Level 2 qualification would include 5 GCSEs A-C, NVQ 2, BTEC First Diploma. If you do not have any of these, you will meet the necessary requirements and will not be charged tuition fees.
The same applies for the Level 3 course, provided that you do not already have a full Level 3 qualification.
A full Level 3 course would include 2 or more A-Levels, GNVQ Advanced, BTEC National Diploma, Access to Higher Education, NVQ Level 3 or a vocationally related or other general qualifications at Level 3.
City & Guilds offer a small amount of bursaries to people who would like to study City & Guilds/ILM qualifications but cannot due to financial reasons. You can use your bursary for a wide range of things:
Paying for your course and/or your exam fees
Covering living costs if you are unable to work whilst you are completing your course
Covering child care or travel expenses
Covering other costs that are making it difficult for you to enrol on a course
City & Guilds will not make any retrospective payments such as; payments for a career development, or any deferred loans you may have taken out with college or your bank.
If you are aged 19 and on a higher education course and facing financial hardship, you can apply to get Discretionary Learner Support (DLS). You apply direct to your college or other learning provider that you may be using and they will decide how much they will give you, based on your circumstances.
The money could pay for:
accommodation and travel
course materials and handouts
child care (you must be over 20 to apply for help with child care)
If you already claiming one of the below payments, you can still apply for DLS:
professional and career development loans
Care to Learn
Disability Living Allowance
How will the money get paid to me?:
A direct payment to you, which you won't have to pay back
A loan, which you will have to pay back
Paid to someone else, e.g. your landlord
You can't claim DLS if you are already receiving one of the below payments:
If your thinking about applying for course in medicine, dentistry or healthcare you could be eligible for a NHS Bursary. You bursary will give you help with your tuition fees and living costs.
If your applying for a social work course you can access the social work bursary. The bursary can be used to help with course fee and the cost of living, you won't have to pay it back and the amount you receive won't depend on your household income.
If you are thinking about applying to one of the 19 private dance and drama school you could get help with your fees and living costs.
When you apply to the school tell them you will be applying for DaDA funding, to be eligible for the funding you will need to be over 16 and show talent and a likelihood you will succeed in the industry.
Have a look at the links provided for more information on the eligibility criteria or which schools offer DaDA.
Pupil Premium:
Pupil Premium is there as a pot of money that can be accessed by schools and the Virtual School to make sure you are getting the right educational support during the school year.
If you have been in the care of Hampshire County Council for more than one day you will be eligible. You will also be eligible if you have left care and have been; adopted, a special guardianship order, child arrangement order or a residence order.
This bursary is intended to help students pay for education-related costs, this includes:
equipment or uniform for college courses
lunch
a laptop
As a looked after child you are entitled to the full £1,200 a year bursary.
It is intended for students who are aged 16 to 19, however if you are older and in full-time education, the bursary is paid directly by your school, college or training provider and the best way to apply for it would be to speak directly to your school/college and they should be able to help you apply.
Entitlement to level 2 & level 3 fee remission
The Level 2 fee remission is for students aged 19 to 23 (on the course start date) who are undertaking a Level 2 course who do not already have a full Level 2 qualification.
A full Level 2 qualification would include 5 GCSEs A-C, NVQ 2, BTEC First Diploma. If you do not have any of these, you will meet the necessary requirements and will not be charged tuition fees.
The same applies for the Level 3 course, provided that you do not already have a full Level 3 qualification.
A full Level 3 course would include 2 or more A-Levels, GNVQ Advanced, BTEC National Diploma, Access to Higher Education, NVQ Level 3 or a vocationally related or other general qualifications at Level 3.
City & Guilds offer a small amount of bursaries to people who would like to study City & Guilds/ILM qualifications but cannot due to financial reasons. You can use your bursary for a wide range of things:
Paying for your course and/or your exam fees
Covering living costs if you are unable to work whilst you are completing your course
Covering child care or travel expenses
Covering other costs that are making it difficult for you to enrol on a course
City & Guilds will not make any retrospective payments such as; payments for a career development, or any deferred loans you may have taken out with college or your bank.
If you are aged 19 and on a higher education course and facing financial hardship, you can apply to get Discretionary Learner Support (DLS). You apply direct to your college or other learning provider that you may be using and they will decide how much they will give you, based on your circumstances.
The money could pay for:
accommodation and travel
course materials and handouts
child care (you must be over 20 to apply for help with child care)
If you already claiming one of the below payments, you can still apply for DLS:
professional and career development loans
Care to Learn
Disability Living Allowance
How will the money get paid to me?:
A direct payment to you, which you won't have to pay back
A loan, which you will have to pay back
Paid to someone else, e.g. your landlord
You can't claim DLS if you are already receiving one of the below payments:
If your thinking about applying for course in medicine, dentistry or healthcare you could be eligible for a NHS Bursary. You bursary will give you help with your tuition fees and living costs.
If your applying for a social work course you can access the social work bursary. The bursary can be used to help with course fee and the cost of living, you won't have to pay it back and the amount you receive won't depend on your household income.
If you are thinking about applying to one of the 19 private dance and drama school you could get help with your fees and living costs.
When you apply to the school tell them you will be applying for DaDA funding, to be eligible for the funding you will need to be over 16 and show talent and a likelihood you will succeed in the industry.
Have a look at the links provided for more information on the eligibility criteria or which schools offer DaDA.