The arrangements about leaving school are changing! From 2012 all young people will be expected to remain in education or training after Year 11. Here is what you need to know, along with “who, how, when, why and where”!

WHAT is happening?
Young people born after 31st August 1996 will be expected to stay in learning after their GCSEs. They do not need to stay at school (unless they choose to do so). The choices they have to stay “in learning” when they finish their GCSEs will be:

Work with Training
Apprenticeships
Volunteering
Sixth Form or FE College
Preparation for Work Programmes
Further Learning or Training with a Training Provider

WHO will be affected?
The change will apply to all young people in England born after 31st August 1996. The change will also affect parents/carers plus schools, colleges, training providers and employers. Schools will have to consider what they offer at sixth form, employers will be expected to provide training for any 16-18 year olds they employ.

HOW can I get advice?
To learn more about what is available after GCSE talk with those that know e.g. school, teachers, family members, professionals. For further information about the changes call the Participation Team on 01983 525927 or email [email protected]

WHEN is all this happening?

WHY is this changing?
The world is changing – fast. Young people with a higher level of skills and more qualifications will have a greater choice about where they work, how much they earn and what they can do. A highly trained work force will also benefit the country as a whole.

WHERE can I get further information?
Further advice and information is available on the following websites:
http://www.direct.gov.uk – a website with job vacancies
http://www.apprenticeships.org.uk – a website about Apprenticeships in England inc. Isle of Wight
Training providers for school leavers
http://www.carelearning.co.uk http://www.fntctraining.co.uk
http://www.htptraining.com http://www.iwcollege.ac.uk
http://www.mpct.co.uk/ http://www.smarttar.co.uk
Secondary schools with sixth forms
http://www.carisbrooke.iow.sch.uk http://www.christ-the-king.iow.sch.uk
http://www.cowesenterprisecollege.org.uk http://www.iwcollege.ac.uk
http://www.medina.iow.sch.uk http://www.rydeacademy.org
http://www.sandownbayacademy.org
For information about Higher Education and University
http://www.unistats.direct.gov.uk http://www.ucas.ac.uk/