Schools and learning

Further and Higher Education (16+ years)

When is the school leaving age?

School leaving age is generally 16 years. For young people with disabilities basic education can be continued up to the age of 19 years.

What happens after next?

At school leaving age there are a number of options open to all young people: some may go on to further education at school or college, while others may wish to gain some work experience.

Further Education (FE)

Further Education, or FE, means continuing with education after 16. This usually means taking A-Levels, GNVQs or City and Guilds, and some people study part time. Courses can be both academic and vocational, which means they are aimed at a specific career. Most people study FE courses before going on to Higher Education.

Higher Education (HE)

Higher Education, or HE, means going to college or university to study for a qualification like a degree or diploma. There are a wide range of courses at colleges and universities across the country. The Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) has full details of colleges and courses, and how to apply for them. For more details visit the UCAS website by following the link on this page, under 'External links'.

Some people also choose distance learning courses, provided by the Open University. For more details visit the Open University website by following the link on this page, under 'External links'.

The links below will help you find out more about Colleges and Universities, Jobs and Careers, how Connexions can help, Work Experience, Student Finance and other related topics.