Post-18 Opportunities
What are you going to do after Sixth Form?
Sixth Form is ultimately about gaining the best qualifications that you can. However, these qualifications should enable you to make the next step in your life. It is essential that you are prepared for life beyond university and can gain access to your next pathway during your time with us.
Careers provision at this stage ensures that you understand how to progress in to higher education or work, whatever your ability or background. Whichever route you choose, the aim is that you improve your well-being through embarking on a career that you are good at and enjoy.
If you are unsure about your options, these resources allow you to explore the routes available to you, to help you decide what to do next. You could apply to university, go on a gap year, take on an apprenticeship, find an internship, or start your working career.
Support is available throughout the UCAS application process and you can find information about how to apply and about how student finance works here.
Whichever option is right for you, we will support you in finding the answers to all your questions about your next step in life.
How about a summer school experience? Sutton Trust UK programmes are designed to support high-achieving students from disadvantaged backgrounds. Please check the website to see if you qualify for one of the 2,300 summer school places before you submit your application. The summer schools give you the chance to experience what university life is really like. Sutton Trust Summer School university experience
For general information and to access a wealth of links and information, please open the spreadsheet below.
Latest career opportunities:
Ambition Nottingham University Guidance
For advice about accounting, please register on this webinar which will be live on 29th September https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/H2C65G8
For advice about a career in technology you can register here for this webinar on 30th September:https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/HJJSDMV
Going to University
Many of our students go on to university. They know that a strong application is essential in being successful in gaining a place at their preferred university. Much research is needed to make sure that you choose the right course and university.
An Introduction To Higher Education and UCASUCAS
What UniHow to fill out your UCAS Application | PDF
Writing a Personal Statement
Writing an effective personal statement is essential to sell yourself to universities. You need to make yourself stand out from the crowd and convince the admissions tutor to offer you a place on their course. Careful research, planning and redrafting are key skills to make your personal statement as good as possible.
Seeking Employment
Some students will feel that, for their own reasons, university is not for them. Instead, getting a job will be their preferred option. As we all know, competition for jobs is increasingly competitive and you will need to make sure you stand out from the crowd. Having a high quality application letter, CV and interview technique are essential to help you get your ideal post.
Below are some websites that will help you to look for the right jobs for you. Being aware of your strengths and weaknesses and your areas of interest will help you to search and apply for jobs that will suit you and that you have the right skills set for:
Writing your CV
Having a high quality CV that sells you to potential employers is vital. You need to tell potential employers what you have achieved academically and what relevant work (paid or voluntary) experiences you have had, as well as other activities and achievements that you have got. A CV is an easy way to do this and once you have done it you can use it time and time again, adding updates as and when necessary.
The wording of your CV needs careful thought; you need to promote yourself using positive language but avoid being over-confident!
Take a look at these examples:
The Guardian | Writing a CVUniversity of Kent | Writing a CV
Job Applications and Interview Preparation
Once you have found a job or Apprenticeship you want to apply for, it is important that you write a high quality application letter or form. Hopefully you will get invited for an interview –careful preparation for such an event is vital. Look at these websites to help you to get ready:
National Careers Service | preparing for an InterviewProspects | Interview Tips
Apprenticeships
Apprenticeships are a great way to gain extra qualifications whilst getting paid for working. There is a wide range of apprenticeships out there which can cater for a wide array of careers and pathways. There are details of what an Apprenticeship is all about and what’s on offer on the websites below:
Gov.uk | Apprenticeships Guide
Student Finance
Tuition fees and being able to afford to go to university is a big issue for lots of students and their parents. It is really important that you know what tuition fees are all about, how much they are for your university choices and how you would pay them back. Have a look at these websites to learn more about student finance:
The Complete University Guide | Student Loan Repayment Calculator
Living Away from Home
Living away from home can be an exciting yet daunting time. Everything that our parents/carers did for you suddenly has to be done by you! Managing your money, laundry, food shopping and housework can be a juggling act and one that may take time to get used to. Read the advice on the website below to help you get prepared for life away from home:
Student Guide Book | Living Away
