What Comes After Madeley?

After turning 16, young people are required to continue in education or training until the age of 18. There are a variety of pathways to consider, so it’s important to find the option that best aligns with your interests, strengths, and future career goals.

Some programs offer flexibility by allowing you to study a broad range of subjects, while others focus on practical, work-related skills. Be sure to research the qualifications required for the career you want to pursue, so you can make an informed decision.

Continue Your Studies

A Levels

  • Description: Study a subject you already took at GCSE level in more depth or explore new subjects like economics, law, or psychology. You can opt for a mix of subjects to keep your career options broad or choose subjects that align with your chosen career path.
  • Duration: 2 years
  • Assessment: Primarily exams at the end of the course
  • Level of Study: 3
  • Entry Requirements: Typically 5 GCSEs (Grade 9-5), including English and Maths, and some subjects may have additional entry requirements (such as grade 6 in specific subjects).
  • Work Experience: Usually 1 week in Year 12
  • Leads to: University, higher apprenticeships, or work
  • Find Out More: UCAS A Levels Information

T Levels

  • Description: Designed in collaboration with employers, T Levels provide the knowledge and skills needed for a successful career. They combine classroom learning with industry placements, preparing you for skilled work or further education. 1 T Level is equivalent to 3 A Levels.
  • Duration: 2 years
  • Assessment: Exams, projects, and practical assignments
  • Level of Study: 3
  • Entry Requirements: Varies by course
  • Work Experience: Minimum 45 days on industry placement
  • Leads to: University, higher apprenticeships, or work
  • Find Out More: Gov.uk Information on T Levels

Technical and Vocational Qualifications

  • Description: These qualifications teach practical skills specific to the industry and job roles you’re interested in.
  • Duration: Varies by course
  • Assessment: Can include coursework, skills tests, and exams
  • Level of Study: 1+
  • Entry Requirements: Varies by course
  • Work Experience: Varies by course
  • Leads to: Apprenticeship, work, college, or university
  • Find Out More: Speak to your local provider or adviser.

Applied Qualifications

  • Description: These qualifications offer a broad overview of a specific sector (such as business, media, engineering, or science), blending classroom learning with practical skills.
  • Duration: Varies by course
  • Assessment: Coursework and exams
  • Level of Study: 3
  • Entry Requirements: Varies by course
  • Work Experience: Varies by course
  • Leads to: University, apprenticeship, or work
  • Find Out More: Applied Qualifications Info

Combine Work and Study

Apprenticeships

  • Description: Apprenticeships are available at intermediate, advanced, higher, and degree levels. They combine on-the-job training with academic learning. You'll get relevant training while earning a salary.
  • Location: 80% workplace, 20% off-the-job study (e.g., at college)
  • Duration: Minimum 1 year
  • Entry Requirements: Varies by industry and job role
  • Qualifications: Apprenticeship certificate, diploma, degree, or master’s (depending on level)
  • Leads to: Work, further apprenticeships, higher education
  • Find Out More: Gov.uk Apprenticeships

Traineeships

  • Description: Traineeships combine work experience with some classroom-based learning. They help prepare you for apprenticeships or employment while improving your maths and English skills.
  • Location: Minimum 70 hours of work placement with remaining time spent in college or a training center
  • Duration: 6 weeks to 1 year
  • Entry Requirements: Aged 16-24 (up to 25 with an Education Health and Care Plan) and no higher than Level 3 qualifications
  • Qualifications: English, maths, digital skills, and work-related qualifications
  • Leads to: Apprenticeship, further education, or work
  • Find Out More: Contact your local college, training provider, or Janet Kemp (careers adviser).

Useful Websites for Apprenticeships:

apprenticeships-logo-black   

  •    Everything you need to know about becoming an apprentice, including a search feature which allows you to search for current apprenticeship vacancies.

about ASK Amazing Apprenticeships   

  •  A leading organisation in the education sector, founded to tackle misconceptions about apprenticeships and promote the benefits.

Apprenticeships

Updated: 12/02/2025 845 KB
Updated: 12/02/2025 1.68 MB
Updated: 12/02/2025 1.63 MB

Apprenticeship opportunities at college

Apprenticeship & Training Providers

Career opportunities in the armed forces

Continue to university

If you are thinking of going to university, you need to consider your KS5 pathway.  Some university courses have specific entry requirements so you need to do your research to ensure that your decision making in Year 11 allows you to progress to your chosen university or degree.  The links below will help you to make those informed decisions.

The Russell Group is a collection of the twenty-four highest ranking universities in the UK.  They maintain the very best research, an outstanding teaching and learning experience and unrivalled links with local and national business and the public sector.

UCAS support young people making post-16 choices, as well as those applying for undergraduate and postgraduate courses.     

Local Universities