Student Careers Information
This page helps you understand your options, your rights at work, and the different education pathways available to you.
STUDENTS
Careers Information for Students
Thinking about life after school? Whether you’re considering A Levels, T Levels, an apprenticeship, university or something else entirely — there’s no single right route, and most people change direction at some point along the way.
This page is here to help you understand your options, your rights when you start working, and the different education pathways available to you. The more you know, the easier it gets to make decisions that feel right for you.
Working While at School — Know Your Rights
Many students choose to work part-time. This can help you gain valuable skills and experience, but it’s important to understand the law.
Minimum age to work
In the UK, you can work part-time from age 13, and you must stay in education or training until age 18.
Hours you are allowed to work
Whichever you’re working, you must always have:
- A 1-hour break after 4 hours of work
- At least 2 weeks’ holiday from work each year
During term time
If you are under 16, you can work:
- Up to 12 hours per week
- Maximum 2 hours on a school day
- Maximum 5 hours on a Saturday
- Maximum 2 hours on a Sunday
- Not before 7am or after 7pm, and not during school hours
During school holidays
If you are under 16:
- Ages 13–14: up to 25 hours per week
- Ages 15–16: up to 35 hours per week
Pay and safety
Once you turn 16, you are entitled to the National Minimum Wage.
Your employer must:
- Provide a safe working environment
- Complete a risk assessment for young workers
- Provide appropriate training and supervision
- Ensure work does not harm your education
If a job ever makes you feel unsafe or pressured, speak to your parents or carers, or a member of school staff.
Education Pathways Explained (Levels 1–8)
Qualifications in the UK are organised into levels. These show how advanced the learning is — and there’s no single “right” route through them. Many people move between pathways at different points in their lives.
1
Education Pathways Explained (Levels 1–8)
Typical age: 14–16+
Examples
- GCSE grades 1–3
- BTEC Level 1
- Functional Skills Level 1
Builds basic knowledge and confidence before moving to Level 2.
2
GCSE Level
Typical age: 16
Examples
- GCSE grades 4–9
- BTEC Level 2
- Intermediate Apprenticeship
Allows you to progress to sixth form, college or apprenticeships.
3
Post-16 Qualifications
Typical age: 16–18
Examples
- A Levels
- T Levels
- BTEC National Diploma
- Advanced Apprenticeship
The most common route to university, higher apprenticeships or employment.
4-5
Higher Education (Foundation Level)
After Level 3
Examples
- Higher Apprenticeship
- Foundation Degree
- Higher National Certificate (HNC)
- Higher National Diploma (HND)
Often studied at college, university, or through work.
6
Degree Level
Age 18+
Examples
- Bachelor’s Degree (BA, BSc)
- Degree Apprenticeship
The traditional university degree level.
7
Postgraduate Level
After a degree
Examples
- Master’s Degree (MA, MSc)
- Postgraduate Certificate
- Postgraduate Diploma
Usually studied after completing a degree.
8
Doctorate Level
Highest level
Examples
- PhD / Doctorate
- Professional Doctorates
The highest level of academic study.
Your Future Pathway
There is no single “right” route. You can move between pathways, including:
- College
- Sixth form
- Apprenticeships
- University
- Employment with training
Your school will support you in choosing the path that suits your interests, strengths and goals.
Get in touch
Careers Leader
Stephen Hill
Deputy Headteacher & Careers Leader
Emailhills@hbhs.co.uk
Telephone01434 684422