Posted on Friday 24th October 2025
Year 11 students in Staffordshire are being urged to check out college, sixth form and training centre open days, to help them with decisions on their future.
Staffordshire County Council is urging young people in their final year of school to explore all their options, so they can be sure to secure a place on a course that’s right for them.
By law, pupils must stay in some sort of learning until they’re 18, but this doesn’t mean learning in a traditional classroom setting.
The county has almost 280 colleges, sixth forms and independent learning providers. Many are having open days over the next few months to give final year school pupils the chance to explore the hundreds of different courses available.
To help pupils make the choice, Staffordshire Jobs and Careers’ new microsite has details of all the different post-school options alongside a list of all the different learning centres across Staffordshire. The web area can be accessed through www.staffsjobscareers.com/optionsafterschool.
Staffordshire County Council’s cabinet member for economy and skills Martin Murray said:
“Many pupils in their final year at school might not be thinking about their next steps yet.
“I would urge young people not to leave it too late—there are literally hundreds of different courses that are available so they are bound to find something that suits them if they start looking now.
“This is why attending open days is really helpful. Young people will get more information on the courses on offer and a feel for the learning environment, meaning they will be able to make an informed choice come results day in August. You can gain valuable skills at any of our colleges that will give you the qualifications that you need to get the jobs you want.”
Young people may also want to consider smaller independent training providers as a good option if they feel overwhelmed by the bigger colleges.
Chris Purcell is a tutor at Chameleon School of Construction in Burton-upon-Trent teaching the Level 1 and 2 study programmes.
He said:
“Learning in a centre like this feels very different to school. Here, we build the support and teaching around each student and their needs, which also includes support for their wellbeing. There really is a course for everyone in a place that suits them.”
Colleges also offer courses at entry level (level 1) for school leavers not expecting to get many formal qualifications.
Most Open Days are being held throughout the autumn term and are being advertised across the county council’s social media channels.
A dedicated careers helpline is also open 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday on 01785 854125, or young people can email CareersParticipation@staffordshire.gov.uk for help.