Options at 16 and 17
What do we mean by 'working and learning'?
This means having paid work but also, as part of that work, you will be working towards a recognised qualification.
At 16-18 you can do a part time job or work experience which will help you learn skills and we have more about these options here but there are also some options for working AND achieving a recognised qualification.
Options for working and learning at 16 or 17
The law says that everyone needs to be in some form of recognised education and training up to the age of 18.
So at 16 you need to choose:
- to study in a school or sixth form college;
- to study in a in a further education college;
- to do an apprenticeship;
Some students might also have the option to do part-time education or training if they are working or volunteering for 20 hours or more a week - but you need to discuss this option with your school.
The apprenticeship route:
The usual route if you are 16-17 and want to work AND do a qualification is through an apprenticeship.
Apprenticeships offer hands on experience in a specific trade or industry and will train you to do a specific job, helping you achieve the qualifications you need. You will be working in a workplace and be treated like an employee but you will be learning the job from someone who knows that job well. You will also spend some time, like one day a week, in a college or similar, where you do more class-based work related to the job.
An apprenticeship offers excellent training and they are available in a wide range of job sectors.
As an apprentice you will earn money too.
Look at the apprenticeship section to learn more about this option.
What will be the cost of my training?
Apprenticeships are free for 16-17 year olds and you will also get paid a basic wage as you learn.