Teenagers – Having A Plan After Exams

For many teenagers, finishing GCSEs or A-levels can feel like a huge milestone. All that studying and revision for two years and then just like that it is all over and then what next? Some teenagers know exactly what their next steps are and even have a career in mind and know how they are going to get there. Other young people just don’t know what they want to do.

Whether they are 16 or 18 years old, it is a good idea for them to have at least a rough plan for their next step. While it’s okay not to have everything figured out, having some kind of direction is a good thing, as it reduces stress and helps them make the most of the opportunities available to them.

What Does Having A Plan Look Like?

So what kind of options are there for young people after GCSEs?

• They can continue to sixth form at school or college to study for A-levels, BTECs or other vocational qualifications.

• Apprenticeships allow teenagers to learn on the job whilst earning some money.

• They can do a Foundation Course, which builds skills and confidence before going to work or moving on to further education.

• They can go straight into a job.

After A-levels, there are more options, which is great for teens who know what kind of work they want to go into.

• University is great for those who enjoy academics, want to specialise and need a degree for their industry.

• Degree Apprenticeships help young people get a degree while working at the same time.

• A Gap Year is good for those who want to travel before university or work, or are still not sure about the direction they want to go. It’s great thinking time.

• Full-time work or starting a Business is an option. Some young people want to get stuck into working or want to do something on their own, whilst they have little to lose.

• And there is also further Training or Courses available that aren’t university-based.

There are so many options, but when is the best time to plan for what to do after the exams?

When To Start Planning Life After Exams

The best time is before the exams, as it can motivate young people to study harder and make informed choices when applying for courses, apprenticeships or jobs rather than applying for everything and focusing on nothing well. It’s desirable to plan for after the exams, but not all young people feel able to, especially if the pressure is too much whilst preparing for exams. And that’s okay. It has to be whatever is fitting for that child.

Ultimately, a loose plan is better than none. Speaking to teachers, parents and career advisors can help young people with direction. Plans can also change, and they often do. But a teenager knowing their options can certainly help them.