What should I consider if I am taking advanced level courses?
Think carefully about the subjects you want do because some higher-level courses or careers require particular subjects. You must decide whether to take traditional academic subjects, applied subjects in broad areas of work such as business and engineering, or a combination of both. You should also check thoroughly with individual institutions about their entry requirements, as they will vary.
What courses can I take in Further Education?
A: There are a wide range of qualifications you can work towards. Many will be advanced level courses (eg AS levels) and others will be work related qualifications such as EDEXCEL BTEC courses for example in Hairdressing, Construction, Catering or Travel. You may also be able to choose from a range of other vocational qualifications in college such as NVQs, City and Guilds and OCR Nationals. Courses offered by local FE colleges are available in prospectuses or online at Your Choice in Tameside.
What should I consider when choosing which college/sixth form to study at?
Amongst other things you should think about are the location, reputation and results, courses offered and the overall environment. You can find out about some or all of these factors by attending interviews, taster days and open evenings – and some colleges will be visiting your school during Year 11. Your Personal Adviser can explain more about different colleges and courses.
What financial help is available to me?
An Educational Maintenance Allowance (EMA) is financial support for you while you're at college or on e2e. It is intended to help with daily costs such as travel, books and food. The money is paid directly into your bank account and depends on your attendance. Visit the EMA website.
Who can I talk to if I need help in making my decisions?
There are a number of people who can help you:
- Your careers teacher, form tutor and subject teachers can all help.
- If you are looking for more detailed guidance you should seek out your Personal Adviser who will spend part of the week in school. They can help with choosing courses, mapping out career options, finance, health etc.
- You can also contact Connexions Direct, which offers quick access to advice and information on a range of topics. The website is Connexions Direct or call them on 080 800 13 2 19 to speak to an adviser.
- For advice on going to University or anything to do with higher education you could also use the Email an Adviser service at Uni4me.
What help can I get if I’m finding it difficult to get a job or access a college course?
The Activity Agreement is for young people that have not been in education, employment or training for minimum of twenty weeks. You will work your Personal Adviser to help to identify activities that you can participate in, that will enable you to gain new skills and qualifications to help you move into education, employment or training. You’ll attend reviews with your Personal Adviser to monitor progress and will be paid £20 per week for attending the activities. Your family can also receive £30 per week.
What are my main options after further education?
Your main options are to continue with your learning full time or part time in higher or further education, or you can get a job or an apprenticeship or you can take a year out before higher education.