When you leave high school, you have to stay in education or training until the age of 18. This can be an exciting time, but also worrying if you're not sure what you want to do.
Here are your options:
When you reach the age of 18 you have another set of options - see the tab below for more information.
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If you have the results you need, you might want to go to university, college, an Institute of Technology or a National College. You also have the option to learn online or part-time if you'd prefer. The video below shows you what qualifications are available.
If you didn't get the results you were hoping for, you can resit some of your courses, or sign up for a different course. You might also be able to apply for a university place through the clearing system.
There are options that allow you to earn money while you continue to learn.
These include apprenticeships, traineeships, supported internships and school leaver schemes.
You might decide that education and training is no longer for you and that you want to get straight into work and earning a wage.
You will need an up to date CV and be prepared for knockbacks - you might not be able to get the job you want straight away.
Other options if you decide to start work are internships, where you do a work placement in order to get experience and learn skills in an industry.
You might even decide you want to start your own business, but you will need to think very carefully about this and make sure you have a solid business plan and the right financial backing.
Many young people decide to take a year out before choosing their next step.
You could go travelling, or do some volunteer work. This option can help you be sure about your next move and give you the chance to gain some 'real-life' experience.
You can talk to your parents or carers, or a trusted adult within your school or setting, or any trusted friend.
If you live in Norfolk:
If you're 11-19 you can text ChatHealth on 07480 635060 for anonymous and confidential advice from a health professional. ChatHealth is available Monday to Friday 9am - 5pm.
You can also contact the Norfolk Healthy Child Programme by calling Just One Number on 0300 300 0123. Our opening hours are 8am-6pm Monday-Friday (excluding bank holidays) and 9am-1pm on Saturdays.
If you live in Waveney:
You can call the Suffolk School Nursing service on 0345 607 8866 or email childrenshealth@suffolk.gov.uk.
Help You Choose is an information, advice and careers guidance website for young people in Norfolk. They have a helpline on 0344 800 8022.
The National Careers Service provides careers information, advice and guidance. you can speak to an adviser on 0800 100 900.
BBC Bitesize has plenty of information if you are deciding what to study, planning your future career or just curious about the world of work.
Student Space is run by Student Minds, the student mental health charity. They offer university students information and advice, help to find what support is available at your university and support services for students.
Childline - if you're under 19, you can call 0800 1111 for free support.
Kooth offers online counselling, advice and emotional well-being support for anyone aged 10-18, seven days a week until 10pm.
money is an issue for you, there is help available.
