Post 18 Options

Have you thought about your future?

Do you know what you want to do when you finish your A Levels?

Here are some options along with information and useful website to help you make your decision.

University             Apprenticeships            Higher Diplomas            Art Foundation Degrees

Brookvale Groby Learning Campus Post 16 Centre has a long and successful history of supporting students with their Post 18 applications. The Post 16 Team have significant expertise in supporting students with their UCAS/Apprenticeship applications and have strong connections with LEBC for apprenticeships. Currently available apprenticeships can be found at the bottom of the page. Our KS5 Progress Leader, Mrs Dixon, plays a key part in enabling early entry Oxbridge and medical sciences applicants who will have to make their UCAS application no later than October half term each year.

During the Spring and Summer term of Year 12, we will have external speakers present in assemblies on University and Apprenticeship pathways and tutors will focus on Post 18 options during their one to one sessions. We attend the annual UCAS Discovery Event. All UK Universities and colleges are represented here with many apprenticeship providers and some overseas universities, also in attendance. This event is a good starting point for our Year 12 students to kick start their research for their choices at Post 18. We work closely with local universities and apprenticeships providers to ensure that you get the most up to date information.

What happens at the start of Year 13?

As soon as Year 13 starts the pace quickens and students have to move fast to get their applications completed.

These key dates are essential:

  • End of September – Pass your draft Personal Statement or CV to your tutor for checking.
  • 15th October – Early entry (Oxford, Cambridge, Medicine, Dentistry, and Veterinary Science).
  • Work with your tutor to get your UCAS/Apprenticeship application completed.
  • Complete your application and pay/send which will pass it to your tutor for completion of your reference.
  • ALL UCAS applications are to be completed by Christmas of Year 13.
  • Apprenticeship applications deadlines are dependant on each vacancy, we aim to have students registered on website and with the LEBC by Christmas to ensure they receive the vacancies that arise directly.

We also advertise vacancies on the Careers Classroom (https://classroom.google.com/c/NzEwMzUzODMwNTY0?cjc=itgkz42)

Student Finance Explained: Student Finance England: 

Student Finance Explained 2025 to 2026

Amazing Apprenticeships:

An apprenticeship is a paid job that combines practical, on-the-job training with a period of study to gain specific skills and qualifications for a career. Apprentices are employees with a contract, earn a wage, and work alongside experienced staff to develop job-specific knowledge and competencies. The training lasts from one to several years, with different levels offering qualifications equivalent to GCSEs, A-Levels, foundation degrees, or even bachelor’s and master’s degrees. 

BGLC Higher and Degree Apprenticeship video:

Keep Video as it is useful and still relevant

Here are some other useful websites for Post 18 choices:

www.ucas.com
www.indeed.co.uk/Apprenticeships-jobs-in-Leicestershire
www.notgoingtouni.co.uk/location/leicester
www.findapprenticeship.service.gov.uk
https://university.which.co.uk/courses
https://allaboutapprenticeships.co.uk

What is a Gap Year and should I plan one?

What is a gap year? 2-minute explanation video for students and parents

Gap Year: A Path to Purposeful Education | Jay Gosselin | TEDxKanata

Early Entry Programme

Oxford, Cambridge, Medicine, Veterinary & Dentistry

The Early Entry Programme runs from the first term of Year 12 until December in Year 13.  1:1 support sessions and mock interviews are organised after the application have been sent off on 15th October.

The Early Entry Programme is applicable to any students who are applying to Oxford or Cambridge University as well as any student who is looking to study either  Medicine, Dentistry or Veterinary science/medicine.

Throughout the programme those Year 12 and Year 13 students will be given the opportunity to attend a range of meetings, visits to other colleges and universities, presentations and student-led groups to help them in their journey towards their application. Students are encouraged to get involved with additional activities to ensure that they stand out from other applicants when applying to Higher Education. Additional opportunities are posted in the Aspire P16 student bulletin. 

Throughout this journey, I will be in regular contact with students and parents to ensure that all students are given the best chance possible to achieve their place.

Mrs Sarah Dixon
KS5 Progress Leader
E: [email protected]