Parents & Carers :

If your child is in Years 10 - 11

Decision time

Young people are faced with a wide range of opportunities after Year 11.  As parents and carers you know them best and can help them by talking to them about the choices they need to make.  It is important that they are encouraged to research as widely as possible so that they find out what is available to them including jobs and training options, such as Apprenticeships, and different paths into Higher Education.  They can use the careers and Connexions information at school or you can go with them to your nearest Connexions centre. 

They might

• go into a school sixth form or sixth form college - there are a variety of sixth forms in Bedfordshire and one school sixth form and a sixth form college in Luton.  They offer a variety of courses, not just A levels.
• attend a further education (FE) college - there are 3 FE colleges in Bedfordshire and one in Luton.  They offer a huge range of academic, vocational and job specific qualifications for students of all abilities.
• get a job or work placement with training - finding a job with training or starting an Apprenticeship means that your son or daughter will continue to develop their knowledge and skills while earning a wage. www.apprenticeships.gov.uk explains about Apprenticeships and the different schemes available.
• become self employed - not many 16 – 17 year olds are ready to take such a big step.  However there are specialist agencies who can help young people set up their own business such as The Prince's Trust and Young Enterprise.

For information about the options for young people leaving school at 16 go to www.direct.gov.uk and look under Education and Learning.

Entry to Employment (e2e) is a programme available for young people who need further help before starting a job or continuing in learning.  For more information go to www.connexions-direct.com and in the Work section look under Work Schemes

Financial support post 16

Cost can be a factor in making a decision on whether or not to stay in education, but there is support available for families and young people at different stages, including the Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA).  Financial Help for Young People is a free booklet available by phoning 0870 900 6800 (quoting reference: LSC-P-NAT-060103) or you can see the whole text with useful links on www.direct.gov.uk/youngpeoplefinance which gives information about:

• Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA)
• Learner Support Funds
• Help with transport costs
• Help for young people studying away from home
• Help with childcare costs – Care to Learn
• Dance & Drama Awards

Who else can help?

Teachers

Careers co-ordinators in schools are there to guide students through the options process, such as the best subjects to take to help them reach their potential.  The form tutor will know your son or daughter best and is in a good position to help when it comes to making important decisions.

Personal Advisers

Connexions PAs work in schools and colleges as part of a team providing impartial information and guidance.  If you would like to talk about opportunities available to your teenager, please feel free to contact their PA, either through the school or via Connexions.