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Colleges & Post 16 Choices

Raising the Participation Age

RAP is a new measure that has been brought in by the Government.  It means that all young people have to be in some form of learning or training until their 18th birthday.  Previously, young people could leave school on completion of their GCSEs and go straight into work.  Now they can still leave school after GCSEs, and they can still work, but the RPA means these young people will need to have some from of recognised learning as part of their post-school activity.

What are the options available after Year 11?

  • Stay in full-time education (e.g. school or college)
  • Take up work-based learning (e.g. an apprenticeship or traineeship)
  • Take up full-time work with an additional part-time learning (at least 280 planned hours of education a year) which will result in an accredited qualification
  • Combine self-employment with part-time learning, leading to an accredited qualification
  • Volunteer (for 20+ hours) with the addition of part-time learning, leading to an accredited

Colleges are where you can study in an adult environment. You are expected to be responsible for your own behaviour and learning. College offers a range of course for different levels depending on the individual’s ability.

Sixth Forms generally offer focus on more academic courses. Some sixth forms are part of a school that offers education 11 to 19 years. We have a local independent sixth form, Thomas Rotherham College which has entry at 16 years.

Open Days/Evenings are a great opportunity to talk to other students and staff, and be able to see and get a feel for the learning environment.

Please click on the links below for further information on Colleges and School sixth forms.  If you want information on any other Post-16 provider, please contact the School’s careers adviser.

Useful Links

Colleges

School Sixth Forms