Information and advice for young people finishing college or sixth form
Find out what options you have when you finish college or sixth form and where to get help with your finances.
Advice on what to do when you're about to finish college
If you’ve finished your A Levels, a Level 1, 2 or 3 vocational course, or you're coming to the end of your college education, there are several things you should consider.
You can book an appointment at the Youth Employment Hub if you need more support.
Talk about your options with people around you
Talk to your tutors about the subjects and careers you're interested in. You can also get support from your college careers adviser.
Find out if you need qualifications or experience
If you have a career in mind, research the qualifications or experience you'd need as this may help you decide on your next steps.
Your options after college
After college, you can carry on learning, do a training course, get a job or apprenticeship, or take a gap year.
What you choose will depend on whether you have a particular career in mind and the opportunities that are available.
University
If you've just finished A Levels or another Level 3 programme, university could be your next step.
You'll need to consider what you want to study and where, and if you want to go straight away or take a gap year.
Further study
You may want to stay at college and study a different subject or level. Your options will depend on your existing qualifications and age.
Jobs
You may feel ready to get a job. Perhaps you have qualified in a vocational subject through your study, or want to get out of the classroom and start earning some money.
Apprenticeships
Apprenticeships are a way of learning and working. Places are available throughout the year, not just in September. You will need to search and apply for vacancies and have an interview.
Traineeships
Traineeships are programmes that prepare you for an apprenticeship or job. They are offered in a range of sectors and give you industry experience as well as qualifications if you need them.
Search for traineeship opportunities on the Youth Employment Hub directory.
Short course, personal development and training opportunities
There are lots of short course, personal development and training opportunities available in Brighton & Hove. They are a great way to improve your CV and make you stand out.
Search for short course, personal development or training opportunities.
Volunteering
Volunteering is a great way to gain experience and skills while also supporting your community. There are lots of opportunities to volunteer in and around Brighton & Hove.
Search for volunteering opportunities on the Youth Employment Hub directory.
Gap Year
A gap year is an opportunity to meet new people, gain independence, skills and experiences, while giving you time to reflect and consider your next steps.
You might feel you need a break from study, or you might plan your gap year to align with your career goals. It can be a great thing to add to your CV or Personal Statement.
Get help with your finances
Many short course, personal development, training and volunteering opportunities offer to cover expenses. Check with the provider or organisation you're applying to about what you can get.
Find out if you can get benefits.
Find information about student finance and funding options.