Employment

If your teenager is thinking of going straight into a job, encourage them to find one that offers training so they can still learn skills and gain qualifications. In the long term, this will give them better prospects and higher rates of pay.

If your teenager does not have a Level 2 qualification - that is, GCSEs at grades A*-C or NVQ Level 2 or equivalent - they are entitled to have paid Time Off for Study and Training (TfST). To be eligible, they must be aged 16-17 and in employment. To find out more visit your local Connexions centre or www.connexions-direct.com.

If they have a Level 2 qualification, it is still in their best interest to aim for a job with training.

If your teenager is thinking of starting their own business, they should still plan to do further training to develop their skills. Help is available through Business Link on 0845 600 9006 or www.businesslink.gov.uk and from The Prince's Trust on 0800 842 842 or www.princes-trust.org.uk .

Not ready to go straight into full-time education or employment?

Entry to Employment (e2e)

This is a work preparation programme that helps 16-18 year olds move on into further education, training or employment. If your teenager needs help with their literacy, numeracy and IT skills, e2e gives them the chance to gain qualifications in these skills and the opportunity to try out different jobs.