Higher education
This is an option for those who wish to continue their education after the age of 18 and usually after having completed both secondary and further education. Higher Education takes place at universities, specialist institutions like agricultural colleges or conservatoires or further education colleges. And the qualifications you can study include degrees, HND, HNC and Foundation Degrees.
Further education
Some people choose to continue studying at this level to boost their qualifications, skills and knowledge.
Find out more about further education with:
Gap year
Taking a gap year can help you learn new skills, travel and build up your CV. You could volunteer, travel, get a job, do some work experience or take a part-time job.
Visit BUNAC, Camp America or Not Going to Uni for more information about gap years.
Internships
An internship is like an extended period of work experience. It enables you to work in a company and gain skills and experience in a particular industry or role. Placements can be paid and un-paid and competition is fierce.
Study overseas
Did you know you can choose to study abroad? All the benefits of doing a degree at university but with the advantage of developing language skills and the opportunity to find out about a different culture.
Find out more about studying overseas or find out more about the Erasmus programme
Apprenticeships
Apprenticeships offer you a job with training. Usually, 80% of your working week is spent with the employer and then 20% studying for your qualification. You get to earn and learn.
Find out more about GOV.UK's information on apprenticeships or read GOV.UK's guidance on higher and degree apprenticeships.
Employment
At 18 or 19 you may decide you want a job.