It’s GCSE results time and many young people are currently contemplating their next steps.
It may feel daunting in this unprecedented time, but there are a number of options available, and although legally you will need to study until you’re aged 18, it does not mean you have to stay on at school as there are many choices available to you.
Here at City Gateway we have options available to you in the form of our Route to Work courses that will support you into employment, further training or apprenticeships. The type of course we can offer you will depend on your GCSE results. If you didn’t pass your GCSE’s then don’t worry, we can help you gain Functional Skills English and maths level 2, which are equivalent of GCSE grade 4(C).
Here is an overview of the options available after taking your GCSE’s.
/ full-time education
You could stay in full-time education and take A-Levels, which is the most common route to take if you are planning on going to university.
Alternatively, you could go on to study a vocational or job-related course at college. These qualifications are great if you want to learn a trade or technical skill. Depending on what qualifications you take, you can go on to further education or training, employment, or university.
/ apprenticeships
Apprenticeships are a great way to get nationally recognised qualifications while working in a real job. You will receive a wage and get on-the-job training. You’ll also study part-time for a nationally recognised qualification.
In many cases, when you complete the apprenticeship your employer may progress you on to a higher level or offer you a permanent position.
How we can help you – if you complete one of our Route to Work courses at City Gateway, you can go on to apply for one of our Office Based Apprenticeships. We work with a variety of employers including NSPCC, Man Group, Thoughtworks and Savills who provide apprenticeships across areas such as administration, customer service specialist, team leader/supervisor and departmental manager.
For more information and to apply visit our Apprenticeships and Training page >
/ traineeships
A traineeship is an education and training program with work experience that helps you to become ‘work ready’.
They provide essential work preparation training, literacy and numeracy skills and work experience to get an apprenticeship or other job.
How we can help you – we have two traineeships available here at City Gateway that will prepare you for an apprenticeship, further training or the world of work.
Both will develop the skills and qualities needed for you to do well in the workplace and to help you succeed in interviews. Learning is practical and is made up of a mix of classroom activities, visits and work experience.
If you do not have your maths and English GCSE then we will also help you gain Functional Skills in English and maths, level 2 being equivalent to a grade 4(C) at GCSE.
Click here for more information and to apply >
/ study part-time
If you’re working, in self-employment or volunteering for more than 20 hours a week you can also study part-time.
Colleges and training providers offer a wide range of training courses that are part-time, including A levels and work-related qualifications like BTECs or NVQs.
How we can help you – all our courses here at City Gateway will require you to be at our learner hub approximately 2-3 days a week. If you would like to work part-time then you can do so, as long as it is no more than 16 hours per week. Once you’ve completed the course, you could then go on to an apprenticeship, further training or employment, so please be aware that these could be full-time.
