The Aspire Guide - Flipbook - Page 6
Work and Training
There are a wide range of opportunities to get you started in the world of work or continue your
learning. Many careers do not require you to have a degree and having a degree no longer guarantees
a job. There are many options available for those considering a non-university route, and opportunities
to gain roles in small businesses and larger organisations straight out of school or college.
Over the next few pages we will look at some of the other routes you can take. Of course, you will still
need to think about what sort of careers you’re interested in. For more ideas on this turn to pages 34-53
to read about 26 exciting careers you might not have considered.
Further Education Colleges
Many individuals choose to attend Further Education Colleges at the age of 16 after their GCSEs,
however, you can also attend at 18 and beyond if you are looking to enhance your employability. Further
Education Colleges offer courses at all levels from entry level to Higher National Certificate.
Further Education Colleges are often more independent in their approach to learning and individuals
must be able to manage their time and workload effectively, preparing them for the workplace!
Individuals at 18 years old might attend Further Education Colleges for one of the following reasons:
•
To get qualifications in vocational subjects such as business, health and social care etc. These
subjects can lead to a large variety of employment areas or university courses.
•
To undertake practical Vocational Courses (often now called technical or professional
programmes) that provide more hands-on learning that can lead to specific jobs in hairdressing,
plumbing, or engineering.
•
To take courses that prepare people for Higher Education (university), for example, Access
Courses or the Art Foundation course.
•
To take Foundation Courses that are designed to help develop Maths, English and Employability
skills. These courses can give students the chance to try out several different vocational areas.
You can search for Further Education Colleges near you via the government’s website. Visit
www.get-information-schools.service.gov.uk, select your location and then filter by “College” and
then “Further education”.
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