Choosing to go on to higher education is a big decision with a bewildering array of options. The choices you make can have a crucial impact on your future career. But remember the best decisions are always well-informed ones and it’s important that you’re aware of the many different educational and vocational routes you can take toward a successful career. Just keep in mind that you should always choose a path you are happy with – one that suits your interests and the ideas that motivate you.
With more than 50,000 courses in a variety of academic and work-related subjects, the UK has one of the largest and most diverse selection of higher education courses in world. From Oceanography to Art Photography, from Zoology to learning Korean; whatever your interests, you are bound to find a subject you will enjoy. Remember, higher education is not necessarily about getting a traditional degree. You could choose to do a Foundation Degree, or combine academic study with workplace learning. Another option is a work-related qualification, like a Higher National Certificate.
Why should I continue studying?
Higher education is where you can discover new ideas and different ways of thinking, as well as gain vocational skills to help you build the necessary educational foundation for your future career. It’s also about experiencing a rich cultural and social scene. Universities and colleges are exciting melting pots of individuals with diverse interests and they can provide you with a valuable transition between living with your parents and gaining financial and social independence.
A higher education qualification can also lead to increased earning potential; a wider range of opportunities and a more rewarding career. Many employers target graduates in their recruitment campaigns and, on average, graduates tend to earn substantially more than people who did not go to university.
Staying in Tower Hamlets
While many students decide to relocate when they enter higher education, more and more are opting to study while still living at home, especially students from Tower Hamlets – and studying at home has many benefits.
The biggest advantage is that it is really cost-effective, especially if you are staying with your parents. You can benefit by avoiding the need to buy new furniture and you will save on utility, rent and food costs. Plus you don’t have to move in with strangers and suffer the anxiety of relocating to a new city or area. All of which can have a negative impact on your studying.
However, staying at home also means that you probably won’t experience the same independence and freedom that is so attractive to many who go to university. It is important to think carefully about your aspirations and circumstances and to figure out what is the best decision for you.
Routes into higher education
If you decide to stay in full-time education after Year 13, there are a range of academic, work-related and skills-based qualifications you can potentially use to get into higher education.
Generally, you will need qualifications at level 3 on the National Qualifications Framework. This usually means
- AS and A levels
- Advanced Diploma
- BTEC National Diplomas and Certificates
You should also expect to have English and Maths qualifications at L2 or above (L2 = GCSE Grade A*-C) You may have Functional Skills qualifications. These skills are the essentials that all universities and employers would like you to have).
As a Tower Hamlets’ student following a Level 3 course such as A levels, BTECs, or an Advanced Diploma, you will have a guarantee of an offer from London South Bank University if you apply for one of many Arts and Human Sciences courses. You will also have a guarantee of a place on these courses if you meet the entrance criteria. Similarly, there is an agreement with the University of East London for a wide range of Construction and Engineering related programmes.
For more advice, talk to your teachers, careers support or Connexions advisors or check out the links below.
