Choices: 8 alternatives to college
Going to college is a fantastic post-16 option. Somerset colleges has some of the best attainment and student satisfaction records in the country. Our colleges, including Strode, Bridgwater & Taunton, Yeovil and West Somerset, offer a wide range of courses including:
- GCSE or A levels
- Vocational courses
- Apprenticeships and Traineeships
- Courses that prepare people for Higher Education, such as Access Courses or the Art Foundation Course.
- Vocational Higher Education courses, such as Foundation Degrees, Higher National Diplomas (HNDs) Certificates (HNCs) and Degrees.
- Foundation courses to develop maths, English, study skills, confidence and employability skills. They are designed to support progression into further study, work and adult life.
However, there are a variety of alternatives to going to college, which may suit some learners.
1. Training Providers
Offering a range of different courses at all ability levels. Learners can study for GCSEs, professional qualifications and Higher Level Apprenticeships amongst other things, and many courses involve distance learning which can suit those in part-time employment or with other responsibilities, such as caring for a family member. Many specialise in training for certain careers. Some will also offer courses to develop young people’s employability skills, including Traineeships.
2. Apprenticeships
Learn whilst you earn, building up skills and experience. Whilst working, you will also be supported by a Training Provider or college to build up your knowledge and earn your qualification. Apprenticeships can take between 1-4 years to complete and the length of your apprenticeship will depend on its level, the industry you’re training in and the skills you already have.
Read more at www.getingofar.gov.uk/
3. Degree Apprenticeships
Degree Apprenticeships combine full-time work with part-time university study. Programmes last between 1-5 years to make sure that apprentices graduate alongside gaining practical skills. You will receive your Apprenticeship wage throughout and have full-time employment status.
4. Traineeships
Traineeships are for 16-24 year olds who want to work but who need extra help to gain an Apprenticeship or job. You won’t be paid, but you will develop the skills and experience needed to get an Apprenticeship or job. They are short-term courses that last between 6 weeks and 6 months.
Read more at www.getingofar.gov.uk/traineeships.
5. Employment
Many 16 year olds have chosen the option to work. For 16 to 17-year-olds, you can work 40 hours per week, a maximum of eight hours per day. Legally you cannot work more than this (even if you want to). There’s a wide range of options, depending on your situation. So whether you want to work part-time whilst continuing your studies, take up an apprenticeship and learn a trade ‘on-the-job’, or just dive straight into full-time working life, there’s a job out there for you.
6. Volunteering
Volunteering has many benefits. It gives you experience working, looks great on a CV and is shown to improve self-confidence alongside self-esteem. You can find volunteering opportunities here.
7. Join the military
Another possible alternative to college is joining the military. Serving your country is not only a tremendous honour, there’s also a variety of benefits including:
- Attractive starting salary with increasing pay the longer you’re in service
- Military provide accommodation at much lower rental rates than private or social housing.
- Receive training in a trade which can lead to a successful career.
- The military supports educational programmes. For example, many serving personnel complete degrees whilst serving.
- Free health care.
- Personnel often travel the world.
Of course there are some downsides to joining the military and this choice is certainly not for everyone.
8. Start a business
Starting your own business and becoming self-employed is another option, but certainly not for the faint-hearted. To design a viable business plan and see this through to fruition is difficult at any age. However, can be done. If this is an option you are considering, we suggest you seek advice, including financial, legal and self-employed persons in a similar industry.
For more guidance on post-16 options, please visit our Learners page.
Released On 16th Oct 2018