Pathways To Employment For
16-25 Year Olds
Young people in England aged 16 to 25 have access to a range of education and training pathways designed to support their development and transition into employment. These include full-time education, apprenticeships, traineeships, study programmes, and Supported Internships.
Employers play a vital role in offering opportunities across these routes, helping to build a skilled and inclusive workforce.
Choose the right path for you
Young people in England aged 16 to 25 have access to a range of education and training pathways designed to support their development and transition into employment. These include full-time education, apprenticeships, study programmes, and Supported Internships. Employers play a vital role in offering opportunities across these routes, helping to build a skilled and inclusive workforce.
Pathway information for learners
Apprenticeships
An apprenticeship is a genuine job with an accompanying assessment and skills development programme.
Apprencticeships are a key option for young people to gain practical experience while earning a wage. They combine on-the-job training with structured learning and are available from Level 2 (GCSE equivalent) up to Level 7 (Master’s degree equivalent).
Apprenticeships typically last between one and five years, and employers benefit by developing talent tailored to their business needs, accessing government funding, and improving staff retention.
Supported Internships
Unpaid training and meaningful work experience for those with an EHCP.
Employers offering Supported Internships contribute to a more inclusive workforce and help young people with additional needs achieve long-term success.
Supported Internships are specifically designed for young people aged 16 to 24 who have an Education, Health and Care Plan. Typically lasting one year, interns spend most of their time in a real workplace supported by a job coach, and attend part-time learning at a school or college. The aim is to help develop the confidence and skills needed to progress into paid employment.
Key Organisations
Here you can find links to organisations and services to support you on your pathway into employment.
Mencap Reading
Shaw Trust
shawtrust.org.uk
The Jobcentre Plus Network
Jobcentre Plus helps young people and adults of all ages find work as well as advice on what benefits are available while job search is taking.
Jobcentre Plus Disability Employment Advisers can offer additional advice and guidance for people with learning difficulties or disabilities.
You can contact Jobcentre Plus on T: 08001690190
The National Careers Service
The National Careers Service provides face to face, online and telephone advice and guidance to support your career planning. See the National Careers Service website (external link)for more information and a range of online tools and support.