What next after high school?

What exactly are A-levels?

Advanced level qualifications-known as A-levels are subject-based qualifications that can lead to university, further study, training, or work. They’re usually assessed by a series of examinations. You might have some questions as to what grades are needed, what are they used for, or who are they for, and the answers are provided below:

What grades are required for A-Levels?

1. The grades needed to take A-levels are regularly at least five GCSEs at grades 9 to 4/A* to C.
2. At least grade 6 in the specific subject(s) you want to study

More so, the specific requirements needed to study A-levels do vary across schools and colleges. It is very important to check what requirements are needed for the school or college you are looking to study at.

 What are A Levels used for?

1. A-levels are a great headstart when looking for employment as employers value it because it shows you have a good level of education
2. They are also the most common qualifications when applying to higher education.

 Who are A Levels for?

1. People thinking of going into higher education as most courses require specific A-levels or combinations of A-levels.
2. People who have not figured out what job or career they would like to go into. A-levels are a good alternative to keeping your options open

The chances are you are hearing this for the first time. It actually launched back in September of 2020. T-levels are another alternative to A-levels and apprenticeships. Unlike apprenticeships, you do more theory and study than working in a placement. Designed for 16-19-year-olds, the 2-year course gives a technical alternative to A-levels. They are the equivalent of 3 A-levels and focus on vocational skills.

What grades are required for T Levels?

Schools and colleges have their own different requirements, checking the websites of the places you wish to apply to will show you what GCSE grades are needed.

What are T Levels used for?

1. After T-levels you can apply for apprenticeships, universities, or jobs.
2. They offer students practical and knowledge-based learning at a school or college and on-the-job experience through an industry placement of at least 315 hours; approximately 45 days.

Who are T levels for?

1. They are good for people who know what career they want, and to learn the relevant technical skills for that career in a classroom.
2. They are suitable for 16-19-year-olds looking to gain both a technical qualification and an industry placement with an employer.
3. They are more suitable for students looking to prepare themselves for the workforce.

Apprenticeships are jobs and qualifications at the same time. They allow you to get some work experience and also earn certificates to add to your CV.

Requirements for Apprenticeships To apply for an apprenticeship you must be:

1. Over the age of 16
2. Not in full-time education
3. Living in the UK.

What grades are required for apprenticeships?  Apprenticeships have different levels, and the levels require different entry requirements. At level 2 which is equivalent to GCSE, the only requirements are all the things listed above; often employers will look for an interest in the apprenticeship you are applying for. Ultimately, it is up to the employer, but for higher levels, the grades required vary according to experience, grades, and roles within the company. For more information check out https://apprenticeshipguide.co.uk/what-are-the-entry-requirements-for-apprenticeships/ What are apprenticeships used for?  They can be used to go into:

1. Higher levels of apprenticeships.
2. Further education courses i.e. University.
3. Go to work with the qualifications you have acquired.

Who are apprenticeships for?

1. Anyone over the age of 16 and over who is looking to earn money and learn at the same time. It is more than 80% on the job and 20% in the classroom.
2. Students who wish to learn a specific occupation while on the job.