Application Processes for Post-18 Options

University

Apply through UCAS for all universities.

UCAS is the organisation that runs university admissions in the UK:

• Applications are made through the website; you apply to 5 courses, often at 5 different universities.
• Every course has entry requirements. Grades at A Level, T Level, BTEC and other qualifications are given UCAS points (A*-56, A-48, B-40, C-32, D-24, E-16). 
• Applications are tracked by the careers team to help students using a Buzzword.
• The Personal Statement created by the students allows them to explain why they want to study their chosen course, demonstrate their academic interests by highlighting relevant experiences and achievements, and showcase their wider interests and skills. It has a highly restrictive character limit, so students must ensure their writing is concise and focused.
• Deadlines are very tight, so work needs to start on applications in Year 12.

Apprenticeships:

Most apprenticeships are advertised on the Government website 'Find an Apprenticeship'.

Students are advised to set up an account on the website, set up searches for different jobs, set any filter (distance from home, level of apprenticeship) then save the searches. Emails will automatically be sent when new jobs are advertised.

Other sites include: Amazing Apprenticeships and Get My First Job.

Planning ahead will give you the best chance of securing an apprenticeship. Every employer has a different recruitment process, so it's important to be prepared. Before you apply:

• Research the employer and learn about their vaules and recruitment process.
• Read the job advert carefully and tailor your application to the skills they are looking for.
• Keep your CV up to date and write a tailored cover letter for each application (Unifrog can help with this).
• Build your professional network by creating a LinkedIn profile.
• Start preparing in Year 12 as many apprenticeships for after Year 13 are advertised between January and May of Year 13.

Top tip: Don't wait until vacancies are advertised. Having your CV, cover letter and interview skills ready in advanced will help you apply quickly when opportunities become available. 

Jobs:

Where to find jobs for after Year 13:

• Work experience in Year 12 can often lead to apprenticeships or jobs later on if you keep in touch with the employer and start working in your holidays for them.
• Build a network of local employers through job fairs and developing your LinkedIn account.
• If you want to take a year off before going to university or starting an apprenticeship, you can tale a Gap Year. If you plan this well it could give you valuable experience and skills to add to your CV as well as giving you time to travel.
• Use job search websites like Indeed, Find Every Job, or Job Bear. 

Keep your options open:

There is no need to decide at the start of Year 12 which route to follow, you can look at all three simultaneously.

Make plans to apply to university and apprenticeships.

Keep developing your employability skills by work experience and volunteering.