Lots of people have got some sort of body art, tattoos and piercings in different parts of their bodies. You might think that body art is quite a new thing but it has been around for centuries - tattoos have even been found on the bodies of Egyptian mummies!
To choose the place that’s right for you, talk to your current teachers, parents and carers, relatives and Connexions adviser – the people that know you best. Think about:
- n the subjects you enjoy doing and find interesting – or is there anything you’ve always wanted to study, but have never had the chance?
- your long-term goals – do you need A levels to get entry to the career or higher education qualifications you had in mind? If you don’t know what you want to do in the long term, keep your options open.
Before you apply, pick up a prospectus for the school or college you’re considering, and go to an open day. Consider the courses on offer as well as past exam results, facilities and styles of teaching and assessment.
Remember that wherever you study, you could qualify for extra help with your study costs.
Sixth form and further education colleges
Sixth form and further education colleges offer a wider range of options than you’ve probably had to date, and usually in a more relaxed environment.
You’ll find AS and A level programmes on offer, as well as vocational qualifications which could include Advanced Vocational Certificate of Education (AVCE) programmes, General National Vocational Qualification (GNVQ) Intermediate and Foundation courses.
Each sixth form and further education college is different, and has its own atmosphere and structure. Some are large and offer many AS and A level and work-related courses; others are smaller and specialise in particular subject areas. Sports, library and computer facilities also differ between institutions.
Further education colleges cater for adults as well, so your course may include people of all ages. In areas where the further education college is the only or main option after 16, they will offer everything you can get in a sixth form school or college.
Specialist colleges
Some further education colleges may specialise in particular areas:
- a subject area, such as art and design, agriculture and horticulture, dance and drama
- courses and support for students with a particular disability or learning difficulty
Going to a specialist college may involve a lot of travelling, or if it’s a long way from home, you may need to live there during term time. If so, you might qualify for financial support.
Remember!
By staying on at school or college, you’re taking a step towards going to university and higher education! |
