Further education

WHAT IS FURTHER EDUCATION?

Further Education (FE) refers to educational choices made after your 16th birthday. It covers all qualifications lower than a degree. Everyone has to study FE until they are 18.

After GCSEs, you could stay in school, go to a sixth form college, go to a further education (FE) college, or join a work-based training provider.

FE COLLEGE

• Go to college open days – they’re great opportunities to talk to students and tutors. 

• College is an adult environment where you take more responsibility for yourself and your learning – there's support and guidance available, but it‘s also a chance for you to prepare for work and life post-education.
• There's usually a range of sport and leisure opportunities – employers and universities look for evidence of your wider interests and achievements, so check out college clubs and activities!

SCHOOL SIXTH FORM

• If you’re already at a school with a sixth form, you could stay on – you already know the place, the teachers, and your friends (who might stay on too).
• It’s still worth looking at other schools – sixth forms vary in size, course offering, and subjects, as well as extra activities and opportunities you might like.
• Check whether they offer the courses you want – wherever you choose to go, make sure you'll be studying subjects that interest you.

SIXTH FORM COLLEGE

• Sixth form colleges can be more informal than school sixth forms.
• They’re usually bigger, and they can often offer you more study options.
• You'll get to make new friends from different schools.

TRAINING PROVIDERS

• There are lots of training providers offering a wide range of work-related training and qualifications, including NVQs and apprenticeships.
• Some are specialists focusing on particular sectors and job roles – such as construction, business administration, childcare, or hair and beauty.
• Training providers work closely with employers who offer work-based training as part of placements or employment