About Option Choices
During a young person’s education journey there are a number of occasions when a decision will need to be made as to the pathway they follow. In their early years these decisions are often made by their parents or carers when they start primary school and move into the secondary phase. As young people become older these options become more complex and increasingly they will want to make these decisions for themselves.
As well as decisions around where to study young people will needs to consider what to study. It is important as education professionals that you understand the different routes available to your students to provide them with support.
The key transition points after the transition to secondary school are:
Year 9/10: The move from a Key Stage 3 curriculum to Key Stage 4 including GCSE’s and Diplomas at various levels from Entry to Level 2. Although traditionally students remain at the same school this is a point at which students may consider moving to another institution especially if they want to study a specific course.
End of Year 11: Students will need to make their first significant decision about their future study options. There are three distinct pathways available at this stage:-
- Academic studies including A levels
- Technical and Vocational studies including Diplomas and T Level
- Traineeships and Apprenticeships
National Careers Service
The National Careers Service is a website that hosts a vast amount of information about careers as well as various tools that you may find of interest. These two pages provide information about careers choices at 16 and 18.
Local Providers
There are many local providers of education and for students considering their options at 16 it is important to research them carefully.
Students will need to consider the issue of the availability and the cost of transport to sites other than those close to home.
