Where to Learn at 16

Boy Blue ShirtAfter 16 you have to make decisions about where you want to continue learning, and you have three main options:-


School Sixth Form Centre

Sixth Form is different from school, even though you might still be in the same building. Sixth Form students generally have a little more freedom and responsibility. They may also have their own study and leisure areas.

If you study in a School Sixth Form, you could be studying:-

  • AS/A2 Advanced Level Courses
  • a range of courses in vocational subjects
  • re-sit subjects, especially GCSE English or Mathematics



Sixth Form College

If you want a change from school, then Sixth Form College could be a good choice. Colleges are often bigger than School Sixth Forms and offer more courses. College life is often very different too. You would be studying alongside students who come from a range of schools.

If you go to College, you could be studying courses such as:-

  • AS/A2 Advanced Level courses
  • a range of courses in vocational subjects, including NVQs (National Vocational Qualifications) at Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3, and BTEC qualifications at Introductory, First and National levels
  • GCSE courses in a range of subjects
  • Entry Level courses



Work-Based Learning

Work-Based Learning (WBL) is about getting the skills you need to do a job. It is a general name for a number of different types of job-related programmes and qualifications.

If you continue on Work-Based Learning, you could be taking courses such as:-

  • Apprenticeships or Advanced Apprenticeships
  • Foundation Learning (previously e2e (Entry to Employment))

Whilst on Work-Based Learning, you will be working towards qualifications such as NVQs at Level 1 (on Foundation Learning), Level 2 (on an Apprenticeship) or Level 3 (on an Advanced Apprenticeship).

You could be working with a Work-Based Learning Provider on their own premises (for example if you are on Foundation Learning) or you could be out on placement with an employer (if you are on an Apprenticeship or Advanced Apprenticeship).

As well as training, you will gain qualifications and you could receive a wage, an allowance or EMA (Education Maintenance Allowance), depending on the type of Work-Based Learning you are taking.