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A new UK Government took office on 11 May.
As a result the content on this site may not reflect current Government policy.
All statutory guidance and legislation published on this site continues to reflect the current legal position unless indicated otherwise.
To view the new Department for Education website, please go to http://www.education.gov.uk

Your choices

Post-16 you can:

  • continue in education
  • do an Apprenticeship
  • get a job - preferably with training
  • work for yourself
  • and if you're not ready for one of these, you can do a personalised learning programme and continue to develop your basic skills and confidence.

Most people choose to stay in education and training and many get financial help through the Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA). The September Guarantee entitles all 16 and 17 year olds to an offer of post-16 learning that meets their needs, and they receive help to choose well.

Which option is best for you?

Do our quiz to find out.

Do quiz

Organise your ideas

Use our activity to help you.

Let's go

Tool kit

Hot tip

Whatever you've achieved in school, there's a learning route to suit you.

Hot tip

Help your parents and carers understand what you're doing and how they can help. Show them the Parents and Carers Guide opens new window.

Keeping your options open

Amanda wanted more time to sort out her career ideas.

See what she did