Your future. It’s your choice.
You need to stay in education or training after you’re 16, but how you do this is up to you. There are lots of options and you need to pick the one that will help you get the future you want.
Earn as you learn
Apprenticeships and self employment
If you have a career sector or path in mind and want to start earning money as you learn, an apprenticeship could be for you. You’ll do real jobs for real employers; training on the job, working towards an industry-standard qualification.
Find out more about what’s available and how to apply at Apprentice Kent.
Some providers who offer apprenticeships also offer Study Learning Programmes for people aged 16 to 19. These include areas like catering, construction and hairdressing. To find out more visit the Kent Association of Training Organisations (KATO) website or talk to your careers teacher.
Working for yourself
If you like the idea of setting your own hours, working when and where you want, and you have an idea that might make money, you could speak to the Kent Foundation about getting your business idea off the ground. The Kent Foundation offer free business support to young people who want to start or grow a business, and they could help you bring your business ideas to life.
Remember that until you’re 18, you’ll need to be in learning or training as well as developing your business.
Kent County Council
www.kent.gov.uk/education-and-children/college-sixth-form-employment-and-training/options-at-16-and-beyond#tab-2