It is possible to leave school after year 11 and go directly into a job, so that you can start earning money. 

If that’s your preferred route, there are some things you can do to make your job search easier.

If you haven’t already, you can write a CV to send it to any potential employers. Remember to include all your skills and qualifications, as well as any training and work experience you’ve been involved in. You can also send your CV to local recruitment agencies who can support you in your job search.

You could also apply for vacancies listed on a range of different job boards including ‘find a job’ on the gov.com website. 

Many employers also advertise via their own websites, through their digital and social media channels and through word of mouth. Therefore, sign up for website alerts, make connections via social media and tell friends and family you are looking for work. 

The specific qualifications or experience an employer requires can vary hugely depending on the exact job role and so, if this is the pathway you want to focus on, it is important to ensure that you have a back-up option in place. If you aren’t successful in finding a job straight away, this back-up option will help you to further develop your key skills and gain relevant work experience which will make your more employable in the future.  

And don’t forget, once in work, it is important to keep learning. Indeed, this is encouraged through the raising of the participation age, which encourages young people to continue to learn new skills and gain qualifications up to the age of 18. So, once you’ve found your job, consider learning part time at a local college or online to help you progress in your chosen career. Courses can be found via the National Careers Service website. 

If you’re unsure of your options or want to find out more, speak to individual schools or colleges or speak to a qualified careers adviser through your school, college or other provider, local authority or via the National Careers Service.