THE LCR BE MORE GUIDE TO OPTIONS FOR SCHOOL LEAVERS

The official end of school date for 2025 will soon be upon us – Friday, 27^th June. Reaching the end of school is an exciting chapter, but it can also feel overwhelming as school leavers step into the next phase of their lives.

Whether you’re 16 and finishing your GCSEs, or 18 and ready to take the next step after A-levels, there are more opportunities than you might think.  Most of you will have already made your choices about what you’re doing next. But if you’re still deciding your post-school path or waiting on results day before making a decision, don’t worry. There will be plenty of opportunities available for everyone, regardless of your goals or grades.

Here’s a comprehensive guide to the options available, along with resources and tips for exploring further in the Liverpool City Region.

Choices at 16

If you’re finishing your GCSEs, here are the possible routes you have probably already considered:

Staying in education

• Do A-Levels at your current school

If you love your school environment, continuing to study A-levels here might be the most comfortable choice. 

• Do A-Levels at another school

Some students choose to attend sixth forms at different schools for a new experience or to take advantage of better subject offerings. If you don’t get the grades to study A-levels at your own school, you might be able to get a last-minute place at another school.

• Attend a local college to study A-Levels

Colleges often offer a wider range of subjects and a more independent learning experience than school sixth forms, which suits those who want to move away from a school environment.

• Attend a local college to study T-Levels

T-Levels are a newer qualification equivalent to three A-levels but with a technical slant. They include an industry placement

• BTECs or other vocational courses

Another option at college is to do a BTEC in fields such as health, IT, and engineering. Some students combine a course like this with a weekend or evening job to earn some money while studying.

Combining study and work

• Apprenticeships

An apprenticeship allows you to work with an employer while earning an industry-recognised qualification. Apprenticeships cover a wide range of careers, from care to engineering, truck driving to management. Many employers will support you to progress up the ladder by working through apprenticeship levels – from level 2 right up to a degree-level apprenticeship. You may be lucky enough to have an apprenticeship already lined up, but if you haven’t, there are hundreds of local apprenticeships to choose from on the LCR Be More platform.

Choices at 18

If you’re 18 and just finished A-levels or another equivalent qualification, you might be taking one of the following next steps.

Higher Education

• University

Many students will have already applied to universities, but make sure to have a backup option in case results day doesn’t go as planned. Remember that clearing offers opportunities to secure a place.

• Gap year

If you’d like to take a break to travel, volunteer, or work, deferring your entry to university (or any other career option) could be an excellent opportunity to have a longer think about what your next step might be.

Alternatives to university

• Higher apprenticeships or degree apprenticeships

These paths combine work and study, offering you the chance to gain a degree or other higher-level qualifications while employed. It’s a fantastic option for gaining more challenging work experience and avoiding university debt.

• Start a job

If you really want a proper job, try and look for roles that will give you experience in a field that matches your career ambitions. Although the reality is that many people change career direction today. Entry-level positions often provide valuable stepping stones, but it’s always worth speaking to your employer about the possibility of on-the-job training, such as an apprenticeship.

• Volunteering or internships

Devoting time to volunteering or gaining internship experience can enhance your skills and strengthen your CV while you decide on longer-term plans.

Unsure or waiting for results?

If you haven’t got a concrete plan, then that’s perfectly fine! Many students are waiting to see their exam results before making a decision. If your results aren’t what you expected, don’t panic. There are still plenty of options to choose from. Colleges and apprenticeship providers typically have spaces available after results day, so you’ll have time to adjust your plans.

Regional support

For those based in the Liverpool City Region, there is excellent support available to help you make the best next step:

• Liverpool City Region Careers Hub

The Careers Hub can provide tailored advice, guidance, and numerous resources to help you explore career options and the best way to access them. Visit their website for information on apprenticeships, training opportunities, and more. Explore the Careers Hub here.

• LCR BE More Careers brochures

LCR Be More has just launched a set of comprehensive careers brochures highlighting which industries are thriving in the region. Reading through them is an excellent way of understanding which industries would suit you for a career, and the skills and qualifications you would need. Download the brochures here.

• LCR Be More Apprenticeship Portal

There are plenty of apprenticeship vacancies with local employers on the LCR Be More apprenticeship portal. Why not explore what’s available – there may well be something that catches your eye.