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Post-16 Options
At Chiltern Hills Academy, we want every student to leave Year 11 with confidence, clarity and hope for their future. Choosing what to do next is an exciting step, and we are here to guide, advise and support you — and your family — every step of the way.
All students in Year 11 meet 1:1 with our professionally qualified Careers Adviser, Chloe Lewis, to talk through their ambitions, strengths and interests. Following this meeting, each student receives a personalised Careers Action Plan, giving them a clear pathway and next steps.
There are three main routes our students can take after GCSEs:
Sixth Form
Many of our Year 11 students choose to stay with us in Sixth Form, continuing their journey in a familiar and supportive environment. Alongside a wide choice of A Level and BTEC courses, students benefit from leadership and enrichment opportunities, dedicated support, and English and Maths re-sit options where needed, helping them prepare confidently for university, apprenticeships and employment.
College
Some students prefer to move into a college environment, where they can choose from a broad range of A Levels, BTECs and T Levels. T Levels are nationally recognised two-year qualifications, equivalent to three A Levels, designed with employers and including a significant industry placement (around 45 days) to help students develop practical skills and workplace experience.
Local providers include:
Apprenticeships
Apprenticeships are a great option for students who enjoy practical, hands-on learning. They combine paid employment with training and study, allowing students to earn while they learn. Alongside gaining a nationally recognised qualification, apprentices develop valuable workplace skills, build professional networks and gain experience in an industry they are passionate about.
Curious if an apprenticeship is right for you? Watch this quick 2-minute video from Unifrog to explore the pros and cons.
Career Pathways at Chiltern Hills Academy
Your future is full of possibilities. At Chiltern Hills Academy, we’ll help you explore every option so you can make the choice that’s right for you.
Options After GCSEs (Year 11)
| Pathway | Options Available |
|---|---|
| Full-time Study | A Levels (Level 3) T Levels (Level 3) BTECs & other technical qualifications (Levels 1–3) English or Maths retakes if required |
| Work & Study | Apprenticeships (Levels 2–3) Supported internships Traineeships |
Options After Sixth Form (Year 13)
| Pathway | Options Available |
|---|---|
| Full-time Study | University (Levels 4–7) Higher technical skill courses (Levels 4–5) |
| Work & Study | Apprenticeships (Levels 3–7) School leaver programmes, internships or traineeships |
| Work | Employment or starting a business |
| Other | Gap year Exam retakes if required |
Options After Higher Education
| Pathway | Options Available |
|---|---|
| Full-time Study | Postgraduate study (e.g. Masters or PhD – Levels 7–8) |
| Work / Work & Study | Graduate jobs or paid employment Higher & degree apprenticeships (Levels 6–7) Internships or work experience Volunteering or starting a business |
| Other | Gap year or travel |
Strengthening Your Future Applications
No matter which path you choose, employers and universities value more than just qualifications. You can stand out by gaining:
- Work experience
- Volunteering opportunities
- Hobbies and interests that show your skills
- Academic enrichment activities
- Testimonials and references
- Travel or gap year experiences
Support for Students and Parents
We know this is a big decision for both students and their families. To help, we provide:
- A Post-16 Choices Presentation for Year 11.
- A Parents’ Guide to Next Steps (created for National Careers Week 2025) to give clear, practical advice.
Together, these resources help students and parents feel fully informed and supported when making choices about the future.