Option 1: staying in full-time education

Whether you stay on at school, or go to a specialist, further education or sixth-form college, you'll find a wide variety of subjects on offer. Remember, further education isn't just about A levels - you can choose from a range of qualifications such as National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs), City and Guilds, GCSEs in Applied subjects, BTECs and Foundation Degrees.

Before you apply, have a look at the courses available at the school or college you're considering, and go to an open day

Wherever you study, you could qualify for help with your study costs.

For more information about staying in education at 16, check the Options booklet 2008 - Options: Your guide to choices at 16 - Barnsley, Doncaster, Rotherham (PDF) or Options: Your guide to choices at 16 - Sheffield (PDF).

You will also find useful advice and guidance on the following websites:

• If you're in Barnsley, Doncaster or Rotherham visit www.ypzone.co.uk
• If you're in Sheffield visit www.connexionsinsheffield.org.uk

Option 2: work and work-based learning

Working doesn't mean that you stop learning - there are lots of ways you can improve your skills and get qualifications:

• Entry to Employment can help you progress towards an Apprenticeship, further learning or a job. You'll agree what you will be doing so it gives you the best help. More about e2e
• Apprenticeships let you do on-the-job training while doing a course, so you can 'earn while you learn'. More about Apprenticeships
• Time off for Study or Training means you're legally entitled to study towards a qualification during normal working hours and still get paid. Find out more at 'Connexions - Work schemes'

Option 3: voluntary work or work abroad

Another option is to take time out to travel, work abroad or to make a difference through taking part in voluntary work.

• Gap year options
• Volunteering between 14 and 19

Making your choice

To help you make the choice that's right for you, think carefully about what suits you:

• What subjects do you enjoy and find interesting? Is there anything you've always wanted to study, but have never had the chance?
• What are your long-term goals - do you need A levels, vocational qualifications or work experience to get on to the career or higher education course you had in mind?
• What courses are on offer at the school or college you're thinking of going to? What were their past exam results? Will their styles of teaching and assessment suit you? What are their facilities like?

If you don't know what you want to do in the long term, it may be better to keep your options open, but talk to your teachers, tutors, Connexions Personal Adviser or family and friends for more help and advice.

Other good places for information and inspiration are:

• Choices at 16 Options: Your guide to choices at 16 - Barnsley, Doncaster, Rotherham (PDF) or Options: Your guide to choices at 16 - Sheffield (PDF)
• UniWorks - case studies from local students, employer directory and labour market information
• Apprentices Go Higher - information about Apprenticeships and progression routes to higher education
• your local authority prospectus site
• attending an open day at a college or training provider
• attending a 'Route 16' event for work-based learning
• options evenings at school

You can also check out other sources of information on our useful links page.