Going to Further Education (FE) college
Email this pageFurther Education Colleges are often larger than school sixth forms and can offer a wider range of courses and subjects, including technical and vocational qualifications, such as BTEC's and T levels.
They offer courses at every level from entry level courses that do not require GCSE grades at entry, through to higher level qualifications. Many courses are part-time, for example, three days a week.
They can also offer courses that combine study with on-the-job training or work experience and life skills courses to help you prepare for all aspects of adult life.
If you have not achieved a grade C in English or maths GCSE you will continue to study those subjects at the level appropriate as part of your study programme.
If you have One Planning or an EHC plan at school this should be shared with the Learning Support Team at the college. You can read about How can I be supported at college and Your Frequently Asked Questions
If you have an EHC plan
If you have an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) to support your needs, you may continue to need this for your next phase of education such as college, an apprenticeship or supported internship.
The EHCP must be reviewed before you move to your next phase of education. This is called a Phase Transfer Annual Review. A SEND Career advisor will write to you to introduce themselves and offer advice and explore options and paths you might take. Your opinions and wishes are important and you will need to share what you would like to do next. For more information on Your Annual Reviews and the SEND Career Advice Service
CXK is an organisation dedicated to transforming the lives of young people and adults; providing support, advice and guidance to help them find work, or move into learning or training, and in doing so improving their life chances.
More Information
Essex Pathways and Options Information 2024/2025
Information within this Essex County Council guide is not exhaustive. Please be aware providers can change throughout the academic year. Information is correct at time of publication (December 2024)
Essex Youth Service - Further Education
Further Education (FE) refers to educational choices made after your 16th birthday. It covers all qualifications lower than a degree. Everyone has to be continuing in some form of FE study until they are 18.
Prospects - How to apply for a college in the UK
If you've decided to go to college, there are various application methods available depending on your age, current qualifications and the type of course you're applying for - discover more about the right one for you.
Talking Futures
There are several pathways for 16 to 18-year olds to choose from, depending on what they're thinking about doing next.
UCAS - Further Education
More about your options after school, including apprenticeships, college, and sixth form.
Also in this section:
Staying on at Sixth formĀ
You can choose to go into the sixth form of your school or move to another school.
Work Experience and Life Skills
Education for young people post-16 can include a mixture of college-based learning and other activities
Supported Internships
Supported Internships for young people with an EHC planĀ
Apprenticeships
Information on what to expect with apprenticeships and how to apply
Preparing for Adulthood Training & Employment
Information on Independence, further education training and employment opportunities