Further Education: Colleges, 6th Forms & Training Providers
Continuing your education after Year 11 opens up an array of possibilities, from academic to vocational courses. It’s essential to make an informed choice that suits your interests, talents, and career aspirations. To help you with this, we suggest you explore all your options, including Colleges, 6th Forms, and Training Providers. These institutions offer comprehensive courses such as BTECs, A Levels, and T Levels, and Apprenticeships.
For information on what to study, try the Buzz Test on icould.com. If you already have a particular job in mind, visit the National Careers Service. For those considering university after 6th form or college, Informed Choices and UCAS provide essential information.
Given the local job market’s composition, consider courses linked to the Health, Manufacturing, Professional, Scientific & Technical sectors, and Business Administration & Support Services. Each of these industries represents a significant portion of job opportunities in Derby.
To better understand the universe of jobs, explore D2N2 Start Profile. Learn more about making an informed choice on Unifrog or seek career advice on Luminate Careers and Coaching. Explore Labour Market Information on Nomisweb.
Local Options for Further Education
Sixth Forms offer a more structured, school-like environment. Students typically pursue A Levels and BTEC courses here. Colleges are larger institutions that offer a wider variety of course options and cater to students desiring greater independence. Training Providers are smaller institutions specializing in certain areas, offering a high level of pastoral care and support, ideal for students seeking vocational training, traineeships, or apprenticeships.
Sixth Forms
The Long Eaton School 6th Form
St.Benedict 6th Form JCB Academy
Colleges
Confetti, Institute of Creative Technologies
Training Providers
How to Apply
The application process varies by institution. Colleges usually have a web-based application system, while Sixth Forms may use paper-based applications. Training providers often prefer direct contact. Regardless of the institution, it’s crucial to apply well before the course start date, particularly for in-demand courses. Remember to attend open days and evenings, either in-person or virtually, to meet staff, see the facilities, and ask questions.
Further Resources
Here, you will find additional resources to aid you in making informed decisions about your future educational and career paths:
General
- UCAS Post 16 Information
- Career Pilot: Post 16 options
- Not Going to Uni?
- What Uni: Compare Universities
- The Complete University Guide
- OFS Uni Connect: University Student Advice
- Springpod: Experience Work & University
Apprenticeships
- Amazing Apprenticeships Quiz
- How Apprenticeships Work
- Apply for an Apprenticeship
- Parents’ and Carers Pack
- Apprenticeships Brochure
A Levels
T Levels
Technical/Vocational Qualifications
Traineeships
Remember to explore all the resources available and don’t hesitate to reach out to our careers advisor for further guidance. Good luck in the next steps of your educational journey!
