Higher education 

This is an option for those who wish to continue their education after the age of 18 and usually after having completed both secondary and further education. Higher education takes place at universities, specialist institutions like agricultural colleges or conservatoires or further education colleges. The qualifications you can study include degrees, Higher National Diplomas (HND), Higher National Certificates (HNC) and foundation degrees.

Find out about UCAS and the support you can get to go to university.

Further education 

Some people choose to continue studying at this level to boost their qualifications, skills and knowledge.

Gap year 

Taking a gap year can help you learn new skills and build up your CV. You could travel, volunteer, gain some work experience or get a job. 

Visit the following websites for more information about gap years:

• BUNAC
• Camp America
• Not Going To Uni

Internships

An internship is like an extended period of work experience. It can help you gain skills and experience in a particular industry or role. Placements can be paid and un-paid and competition is fierce.

Find out more about internships on the City Internships website.

Study overseas 

Did you know you can choose to study abroad? You get all the benefits of doing a degree at university but with the advantage of developing language skills and the opportunity to find out about a different culture.

Find out more about studying overseas on the UCAS website.

Apprenticeships 

Apprenticeships offer you a job with training. Usually, 80% of your working week is spent with the employer and then 20% is spent studying for your qualification. You get to earn and learn.

Take a look at the GOV.UK website for more information:

• Find an apprenticeship on GOV.UK
• Read more about higher and degree apprenticeships on GOV.UK

You can also join Barnsley Council as an apprentice.

Employment 

At 18 or 19 years old you may decide you want to find a job. Find out more about support to find a job.