Students in a classroom around a table looking at a demonstration by the teacher

Education and training

Secondary school education

During the first two or three years at secondary school you will follow the same curriculum or range of subjects as other 11 to 13-year-olds, giving you a good general education.

In Year 8/9, you will choose the subjects that you go on to study in Years 10/11. From the end of Year 11 you can choose whether to stay in full-time learning at a sixth form or college, or take a job with training, such as an apprenticeship.

Taking a job without training is not advisable, as all young people must stay in some form of education or training until, at least, their 18th birthday. Find out more about staying in learning and 'Raising the Participation Age (RPA).

It’s important you choose training and education to fit in with your interests, abilities and any career plans you have. Use the UCAS course finder tool in Planning your future to help you. There are advisers in schools or you can get help and advice at Platform and Lift youth hubs from the Progress Team. 

The Progress Team

group photo of the Izzy Progress Team

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