Useful tools to help you think about what to do after your GCSEs or National 5s, including info about post-16 qualifications, and advice on different careers.

Research your options

  1. Look at the different places you could study or train – you could go to a school, college or training provider.
  2. Find out about the different types of qualifications available – think about what you want to do in the future and what sort of learning you prefer. Are you a hands-on person or are you happier doing exams? 
  3. Take the careers quiz to find out what sort of personality you have, which celebrities you're like, and what jobs may suit you.
  4. Look up different careers – you can search by job title, job family, related skills, or related subjects.
  5. Attend open days in your local area to work out where you want to study or train.

What else can help you decide?

  1. Take a look in your school careers library where you can research your career or course ideas further. Your school may also have computer programmes that help you identify careers that match your interests.
  2. Your school may have specialist careers staff that can advise you on your options. Alternatively, you can contact the National Careers Service and speak to one of their advisers for details.
  3. Talk about your ideas with your family and friends. It can be helpful to get another view when considering your choices. 
  4. Visit open days or open evenings. You can visit schools and colleges to find out about the courses on offer, as well as speaking to staff and students. Events and open days give you the perfect opportunity to find out more about studying your preferred course(s). It's a good idea to visit a few so you can compare them to see which feels right for you.
  5. Attend careers and skills fairs. They’re a great opportunity to meet colleges, training providers, apprenticeship providers, employers, and careers advisers.