Studying and finding work
We want every young person leaving care to have the support they need to fulfil their goals in life.
How we can help
Whether you’re thinking about repeating some of the school work you may have missed so that you can re-take your GCSEs or A Levels, doing an apprenticeship or training course, going to college or university, we’re here to help guide you along the way.
If you're thinking about higher education, you may need qualifications in certain subjects. You may have an idea of the sort of career you want and prefer the idea of on the job training plus some college time.
We have targeted youth advisers, employment advisers, and benefits advisers who can help you.
We can also help you with the application process including advice on completing your CV, form filling, letter writing and making the most of interviews.
If you continue to learn and develop your skills, you could receive some financial support to help you out with things like books, travel and equipment. You’ll find more about financial support in the finances section and in the financial handbook: Leaving and After Care Finance Handbook 2022 to 2023 (PDF, 372.67 kB)
Finding an apprenticeship
We can help you access an apprenticeship within the local business community as well as with Essex County Council. These are often available to young people who are care leavers (sometimes before they are offered to anyone else).
This can be a great way of training if you don’t want to be in a classroom on a full-time basis and it does give you a real insight into what the job you're doing is really like. You'll also end up with a great qualification and some good experience.
You can find lots of apprenticeship vacancies on GOV.UK.
Going to college or university
Going to college or university will increase your chances or choice of employment and help develop your confidence and friendships. If you’re thinking about going to college or university, look out for open days where you can get a feel for the courses available and what it is really like.
We’ll support you in your planning to go to university as well as continue to support you while you are completing your course of education while it is agreed in your pathway plan.
We’re happy to attend open days and graduations (with your permission) to celebrate your achievement with you.
If you decide to go to University there is a range of financial support available to you. Full details of this can be found in the finance handbook: Leaving and After Care Finance Handbook 2022 to 2023 (PDF, 372.67kB)
Finding work
The targeted youth adviser and employment advisers work alongside your social worker or personal adviser and have links to local employers.
Each of the Leaving and After Care teams in Essex hold job clubs or drop ins where you can get advice and support on all areas of job-seeking or study to give you the best chance of sustaining your employment or training.
You can also get information and advice from your local Jobcentre Plus.
Further support
If you decide to return to study between the ages of 21 and 25 a personal adviser will be available to advise you if needed.
The Prince’s Trust has lots of opportunities for young people.