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Leaving school opens up more routes than most people realise. This guide covers the best careers advice for school leavers, from apprenticeships and school leaver schemes to entry-level jobs and further education, so you can make a confident, informed decision about what comes next.
What are your options after leaving school?
Now is the perfect time to start shaping your future. With so many diverse professional routes available, school leavers today have more choices than ever. The key is to explore your options early, understand what different professions offer, and choose a path that aligns with your strengths, soft skills, and ambitions.
1. Apprenticeships and traineeships
Apprenticeships allow you to earn while you learn by combining paid work with formal qualifications. Traineeships are short-term programmes (usually under 6 months) designed to boost your skills before taking on a job.
Why choose this path?
This opportunity is perfect for gaining hands-on experience. Whether you're an aspiring electrician, carpenter, plumber, or even doctor you’ll benefit from job-specific training while earning industry-recognised qualifications.
Examples of apprenticeships and traineeships:
Engineering apprenticeships: Require GCSEs in Maths and Science, along with strong problem-solving abilities and a keen interest in technical subjects. Ideal for those who enjoy hands-on work and innovation.
Business administration apprenticeships: Require GCSEs in English and Maths. Strong organisational skills and proficiency in Microsoft Office are highly beneficial for success in this role.
Doctor apprenticeships: Require A-levels in Biology, Chemistry, and either Physics or Maths. Essential skills include strong interpersonal abilities, empathy, and a genuine passion for healthcare.
Fashion apprenticeships: Require GCSEs in English and Maths. An interest in the fashion industry is important, with opportunities available in both design and non-design roles.
Where to find apprenticeships:
England – gov.uk, Institute for Apprenticeships
Scotland – apprenticeships.scot
Wales – gov.wales
Northern Ireland – nidirect.gov.uk
Pro Tip
Many school leaver schemes and apprenticeships open their applications between October and May, and the most competitive programmes fill up fast. Start researching from Year 12 or Year 13, even if you are not ready to apply yet. Some employers recruit on a rolling basis, so checking early gives you more options.
2. A-levels and T-levels
A-levels are traditional academic qualifications that can lead to university, further education, training, or employment. Selecting the right subjects is important, as they can impact your future career options. Many schools have a 6th form college, making the transition to A-levels straightforward and convenient.
T-levels, on the other hand, are new qualifications that combine classroom learning with on-the-job experience. They aim to provide a more practical learning experience, preparing you for skilled employment or further study.
Looking further ahead, V-levels are expected to launch in 2027 as a new higher-level vocational qualification, designed to sit above T-levels and provide a stronger bridge between vocational training and degree-level study.
Why choose this path?
It’s perfect if you want to keep your university options open or need specific subject knowledge for your chosen career. Check out the A-level and T-level websites for more information about their entry requirements and school leaver programmes.
Examples:
A-levels in Biology, Chemistry, Maths (for medicine)
T-level in Digital Production (for tech careers)
A-levels in English and History (for law or journalism)
3. Vocational courses and school leaver schemes
When pursuing further education as a school leaver or student, vocational courses focus on practical skills and training for specific jobs, such as a bricklayer, electrical work, or beauty therapy. These courses are typically offered by colleges and vocational training centres.
School leaver schemes are structured programs offered by employers to recent school leavers from the age of 17, providing a combination of work experience, training, and mentoring to help you develop in your chosen career.
Why choose this path?
These options provide practical experience and usually lead directly to higher study or employment.
Examples:
IT vocational program: for example, BTEC National in IT may require GCSEs in Maths and English, while hospitality courses might need basic GCSEs alongside an interest in the field.
NHS school leaver scheme: GCSEs in English, Maths, and Science, alongside a strong interest in healthcare and a commitment to learning and development.
Care Assistant or nurse: Relevant vocational qualifications or A-levels, usually including Biology, followed by a nursing degree or diploma. Practical experience in healthcare settings is highly beneficial.
Hospitality vocational course: Typically requires basic GCSEs and a strong interest in customer service, events, or culinary arts. A BTEC in Hospitality can open doors to careers in hotels, catering, events coordination, or restaurant management.
Marks & Spencer school leaver scheme: Usually open to 18-year-olds with GCSEs and strong people skills. This paid program develops retail management and leadership skills, leading to permanent roles in store operations, customer service, or logistics.
MI5 school leaver scheme: Requires strong GCSEs (including English and Maths) and sometimes A-levels. It offers paid, structured training in areas like cybersecurity, business support, or intelligence analysis. Ideal for students with attention to detail, and interest in national security.
4. Internships
Internships provide valuable experience in a specific field, allowing you to enhance your CV while expanding your professional network. These opportunities can be paid or unpaid and typically span anywhere from a few weeks to several months. One of the most popular choices is summer internships, as they showcase proactive initiative, hands-on experience, and dedication to professional growth, qualities that make candidates stand out in competitive job markets.
Why choose an internship?
They offer insight into a role or industry and boost your expertise. Internships often serve as a stepping stone to long-term employment, making them an excellent opportunity to secure your first job.
Examples of internships:
Marketing internships: GCSEs in English and Media Studies, with a strong skill set in social media management, and basic graphic design tools like Figma, Canva or Adobe Photoshop are advantageous.
Finance internships: GCSEs in Maths and Business Studies, with technical expertise in Microsoft Excel and knowledge of financial principles, such as understanding balance sheets and financial ratios, are crucial.
Journalism: GCSEs in English and Media Studies. Experience with writing for school newspapers or blogs is beneficial. Familiarity with content management systems (CMS) like WordPress, and basic photo editing skills using Adobe Creative Cloud are advantageous.
Find out more about the qualifications needed for the above jobs:
5. First full-time and part-time job
Your first job doesn’t have to require previous experience. In fact, many entry-level roles are designed specifically for those just starting out. These positions offer a great way to gain real-world work experience, build confidence, and develop transferable skills that can lead to more advanced opportunities in the future. Alternatively, part-time jobs are ideal if you're continuing your education or need a more flexible schedule, allowing you to balance work with college, sixth form, or training. Before exploring the exciting options available, learn the key skills that employers value most.
Why choose this path?
This route is perfect for those who want to be independent, earn straight away, and develop workplace skills on the job.
For more information, explore our related guide for writing a CV with little to no experience.
Retail positions: Cashier, sales assistant or stock clerk usually require GCSEs in subjects like English and Maths and good customer service skills. Previous experience in customer-facing roles is a plus.
Customer service: Call centre operator or help desk support may require GCSEs in English and Maths and excellent communication skills. Basic IT skills and experience using CRM systems can be beneficial.
Accountant: Requires A-levels in Maths or Accounting, emphasising strong analytical abilities and keen attention to detail.
Check out the following CV example and writing guides for more tips:
6. Certificates, diplomas, and higher education
If you’re 18 or older, there are many options for school leavers. Consider enhancing your skills by pursuing further education after school. With options for full-time, part-time, or distance learning, you’ll have the flexibility to study in a way that fits your schedule and location.
Beyond getting a Bachelor's degree, consider the following options:
Higher National Certificate and Diploma (HNC/HND) or Foundation Degree (FdA): Blend academic learning with practical experience in sectors like sport, hospitality, drama, design, and business studies, usually completed in one year.
Certificate of Continuing Education (CertCE): Provides a recognised qualification in 8 months to 1 year, briefly introducing to higher education, which is perfect for those unsure about university.
Certificate and Diploma of Higher Education (CertHE/DipHE): Standalone levels within a degree program, with CertHE taking 1 year and DipHE taking 2 years.
Keep in mind that each course varies in requirements, duration, and credit system. Be sure to choose carefully to find the one that best aligns with your career goals.
Why choose this path?
These qualifications offer a faster, more flexible route to gaining recognised credentials without committing to a conventional degree. You can typically complete them in 1-2 years, allowing you to enter the workforce sooner, switch industries, or progress to university later with advanced standing. They’re ideal if you’re looking for practical learning or prefer earning while studying.
Examples:
HNC in Sport Science
Foundation Degree in Hospitality
CertHE in Performing Arts
7. Volunteering
Volunteering is a fantastic way to gain practical experience while making a meaningful impact. And adding volunteer work to your CV highlights transferable skills that demonstrate both personal and professional growth, making it a valuable and impactful addition to your application.
Explore this platform to discover exciting volunteer opportunities across the UK.
8. Uni or no uni? How to decide
There is no single right answer to whether you should go to university. The best route depends on your career goals, how you learn best, and how quickly you want to start earning. Both academic and vocational paths lead to successful careers; what matters is choosing the one that fits you.
| Route | Best for | Key consideration |
|---|---|---|
| Apprenticeship | Those with a clear career direction who want to earn while they learn | No tuition fees; you gain a qualification and real experience from day one |
| University | Those who want broader career flexibility or need a degree for their chosen field | Three or more years of study; tuition fees apply; stronger for certain professions like law or medicine |
| School leaver scheme | Those ready to enter the workforce in a structured environment | Competitive intake; some schemes lead directly to full-time employment |
| Vocational course | Those who prefer hands-on, practical learning in a specific trade or sector | Faster route to employment; highly valued in trades, healthcare, and tech |
15 best jobs for school leavers with no experience
Entry-level roles have become more competitive in 2026 according to data, but demand remains strong across several key sectors. Here's where school leavers are finding work right now.
| Sector | Example roles |
|---|---|
| Healthcare | healthcare assistant, patient care technician |
| Administration | office administrator, data entry clerk |
| Retail and sales | sales assistant, customer service representative |
| Hospitality | kitchen assistant, concierge |
| Construction and trades | trainee electrician, plumbing apprentice |
| Education support | teaching assistant, nursery assistant |
| Customer service | call centre agent, helpdesk support |
| Security | event steward, CCTV operator |
| Cleaning and facilities | domestic cleaner, office cleaner |
| Warehousing and logistics | warehouse operative, stockroom assistant |
For additional guidance, search our extensive CV example library or related blog article on the best jobs for students.
6 tips on how to choose the right career path for you
Feeling unsure about your next step is completely normal – most school leavers are in the same position, and there is no deadline on figuring it out. Here’s some advice on starting your career journey:
Set achievable goals: Define what success looks like for you, whether it’s a specific job, salary range, or lifestyle. Research the skills, qualifications, and routes needed to reach your goal, and map out short and long-term steps.
Take a career aptitude test: To help you assess your strengths and weaknesses, consider using tools like CareerFitter, Sokanu, Career Hunter, Truity, or MAPP.
Create a professional CV and cover letter: Showcase your skills, knowledge, and achievements, even if you have little to no experience. Tailor each application to the job description, using keywords and focusing on how you can solve problems for employers.
Practise interview skills: Prepare for common interview questions, emphasise your strengths, and clearly demonstrate how they align with the role you're pursuing.
Go to career fairs and use networking tools: Sometimes the best opportunities come from meeting the right people. So, regarding career advice for school leavers, we recommend attending career job fairs, being proactive in LinkedIn, asking questions, and following up with contacts you meet at these events. It will introduce you to fresh ideas, connect you with potential mentors, and open doors to hidden opportunities that aren’t always advertised.
Stay updated: Follow industry trends, new technologies, and emerging roles, especially in growing sectors like green energy, AI, digital health, and creative tech. Staying informed helps you future-proof your skills and pivot if needed.
Consider taking a gap year...
If you’re still unsure about your career path, a gap year could be the perfect solution. It offers a chance to explore new environments, and reflect on your passions while pursuing personal projects that excite you
Key takeaways
Explore apprenticeships and school leaver schemes early – many open in October and close before summer
Use a career aptitude tool to identify your strengths before committing to a path
Tailor your CV to each application, even with little or no experience – refer to our school leaver CV example for a strong starting point
University is not the only route to a successful career; apprenticeships, T-levels, and vocational courses all lead to well-paid, in-demand roles
Additional resources:
Next steps?
We are on a mission to prepare you for success, so here you have different resources to make your job search easier. Check out our blog articles, including tips on starting a cover letter, creating a LinkedIn profile, and discovering the highest-paying jobs in the UK, even those requiring no experience.
FAQs
When should I start applying for school leaver schemes?
Most school leaver schemes open applications between October and May, so it is worth starting your research in Year 12 or Year 13.
Some of the most competitive programmes, such as those at large employers like M&S or MI5, close early.
Rolling recruitment means some roles are available year-round.
Can I work full-time after leaving school?
Yes, you can work full-time after leaving school. Many entry-level job opportunities are available for school leavers, and apprenticeships also offer full-time work combined with training.
How do apprenticeships differ from internships?
Apprenticeships combine practical work experience and academic learning, leading to a recognised qualification. Internships are typically shorter and focus on gaining work experience in a specific field without necessarily leading to a qualification.
Are there specific resources for school leavers in Scotland?
Yes, school leavers in Scotland have access to specific resources and opportunities, such as:
How do I choose between A-levels and vocational courses?
A-levels are a better fit for those aiming to pursue academic careers, while vocational courses are perfect for hands-on, practical careers.
What are the best college courses for school leavers in the UK?
Some of the most in-demand college courses for school leavers in the UK include:
Business Administration and Management
Information Technology and Computer Science
Health and Social Care
Engineering and Construction Trades
Creative Arts and Media
