Decide what to do when you leave school (care leavers)

It will be important to consider a few options before making your final choice. Your Young Person's Advisor (YPA) and your Virtual School caseworker will give you lots of advice and guidance as part of your Year 11 'PEP meetings' and as part of your pathway plan where you will set out goals for your future.

The move from Year 11 to further education can be challenging especially if you are moving home at the same time or at a later stage. Your Young Person's Advisor (YPA) and your Virtual School caseworker will work closely with you to make sure any changes affecting your education are as smoothly as possible.

DurhamWorks

DurhamWorks can support 15 to 16 year olds when making decisions about education, training or employment after leaving school. They can help you make a successful transition from school into your chosen placement. You will have a Progression Advisor (PA) who you can talk to about careers information, advice and information based on your interests and needs.

Your PA will also be able to attend year 11 planning meetings and can provide ongoing support during the months after you leave school and during your first few months at your new destination. They can also advise you about specific opportunities available to you, such as apprenticeships or internships where employers are looking to recruit care leavers. You can also access group work activities focused on transition, where the programme is available in your school.

You can ask for support from DurhamWorks through your school careers teacher, virtual school caseworker or your social worker. You can also contact DurhamWorks directly through their website DurhamWorks.