It’s a really exciting time in a teenager’s life – but what exactly are your childs’ options after leaving school? I can’t help feel it used to be easier to make the decision about what to do when you left school. Happily there are more options available now, whether your child is looking to further their education or go straight into working life. What I really appreciate now, looking back, is that these decisions don’t have to be it for the rest of their lives. If your child tries a particular career and really doesn’t enjoy it, it’s never too late to pursue further education and vice versa.
University or College
For many, university or college is the natural next step after high school. This is the option that both my adult children have chosen, albeit in very different fields. The jury is still out on what career path the youngest of our 3 daughters chooses. This traditional route offers an opportunity to pursue specialised knowledge in fields like engineering, medicine, arts, law, or social sciences. Higher education institutions provide structured learning environments, networking opportunities, and qualifications that are highly regarded in the job market. Depending on the country and the course, university degrees can take between three to seven years to complete. Our eldest daughter is studying architecture which will see her studying in some form for 7 years.
One of the main advantages of attending university is the variety of career paths it can open up. Many professions, such as law, medicine, and education, require a degree as a minimum entry requirement. However, this can be an expensive option, as tuition fees can be high, and student debt is a common concern.
Vocational Training and Apprenticeships
This can definitely be the better option for school leavers that enjoy practical aspects of work. Not all industries need a university degree to succeed. Vocational training programs and apprenticeships provide practical, hands-on skills for trades and technical professions.
Fields like construction, plumbing, electrical work, and culinary arts have a high demand for skilled workers but happily a lot of other industries are now opening up to the idea of apprenticeships. Our eldest searched around for a company and a university that were happy to work together to provide an architectural apprenticeship, meaning that she will gain 3 years work experience whilst gaining her masters and not get in any more student debt. So far, she is really enjoying it and has just started her university where she will attend one day per week.
Gap Year and Travel
I would have loved my girls to take a gap year but they were determined to start studying straightaway. I have friends whose young adults have used their gap year to explore the world and take up odd jobs to fund them. I’m currently wondering whether its an option for 51 year olds!
Entrepreneurship
This can be a risky but rewarding option but is definitely not the easy option to succeed. This is the option that can potentially be done at the same time as studying or an apprenticeship though. Entrepreneurship offers the freedom to turn ideas into reality, whether through launching a startup, developing an app, or creating a small local business.
Many entrepreneurs take online courses or attend business school to build their financial and managerial skills. A business school education, whether taken full-time or part-time, can be incredibly valuable for developing skills in leadership, strategic planning, and finance.
