Is uni for you?
Wednesday 5 August 2009
University isn't for everyone, there are still loads of other options available. Read our guide.
Scottish Highers
The results for Scottish Highers were released today! If you need advice contact the Skills Development Scotland Exam Results helpline on 0808 100 8000.
Your options
You don't have to go to university to get more qualifications. There are many ways to go about it.
The Open University
Want to study but worried about the costs? The Open University lets you study for far less than a campus-based establishment – and depending on your circumstances you might not have to pay a penny.
You’ll also have enough time to earn a living at the same time, which means you could kick start your career. You could end up with a lot of work experience by the time you finish the course.
Diplomas
If you’d rather get a qualification that gives you practical, hands-on experience, then why not apply for a Diploma?
As well as classroom study, you’ll also go out to work places to gain experience that employers are always on the look out for. It’ll make you stand out from the rest.
There are 10 different subjects that you can choose from including Creative and Media, Engineering, Hair and Beauty Studies and Information Technology – and from 2011 there will be seven more subjects on offer.
The Diploma also keeps your options open for the future should you decide to change direction. Once you’ve finished you can either take A levels or go to university.
Check out what these students think of the Diploma.
Apprenticeships
Education is definitely important, but did you know that you can work full-time and still get a qualification?
Apprenticeships let you work alongside other experienced staff members to gain skills and training for a specific role. You’ll build up enough skills to get a qualification like a NVQ, which many employers recognise.
The best perk of all is that you get to earn a wage. You may even get a pay rise if you’re good enough!
Gap year
If you really can't decide what to do next year then a gap year will give you loads of time to refocus. Just make sure you do something useful with your time!
Why not get a job and earn some cash? A Year In Industry provides work placements for anyone completing a gap year, and gives an insight in to how the industry really operates.
Many people also decide to go abroad to volunteer for roles that help local communities. Volunteering projects build your key skills, give you experience of life outside your comfort zone, plus, they're usually good deeds. Visit Programmes Abroad for more help.
University
If you do decide to go uni, then be prepared. Find out how to survive Freshers' Week.
