Now is the time to start thinking about what you are going to do after your GCSEs. We can help you understand what your options are and give you some ideas to help you choose.
Get started by answering these questions
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
Imagine what job you may have or where you'll be living.
Knowing what you would like to be doing in the future helps you understand what you need to do to get there.
It might help to think of it like climbing a staircase. If your goal in 5 years time is at the top of the stairs, to get there you will need to plan the first few steps.
There are people who can help you plan your next steps. Speak to:
- Parents/guardians
- Teachers
- Friends
- Careers Adviser
Start thinking about the labour market and what jobs are in demand now and in the future. Look at Future of Work in Wales to find out more.
What are your skills and interests?
You might be good at problem solving or communicating with others. You may have a hobby but never considered turning it into a career.
Knowing what you like and what you're good at is a great way to choose which option is best for you.
Try our Career Match Quiz to match your skills and interests to over 700 different jobs.
What are your strengths?
Knowing what your strengths are can help you think about what jobs might suit you in the future. You could be determined or have patience. You might be creative or very enthusiastic.
Try the Buzz Quiz and find out your personality type and what jobs might suit you. In under 5 minutes you can discover:
- Your strengths and what motivates you
- Some jobs linked to your personality type
How do you prefer to learn about things?
You might prefer learning by:
- Listening to someone talk about the subject
- Being shown how to do the task
- Trying out things for yourself
- Watching tasks being done
Knowing about your style of learning can help you choose your next step.
Explore the options
Learn what to expect at college or sixth form, what financial help you could get and more.
Apprenticeships are a great way to gain qualifications while you work and earn a wage. Search for apprenticeships near you, find out about apprenticeships and apprenticeship levels, and get tips on how to apply.
Help with CVs, application forms, personal statements, interviews, finding jobs, approaching employers and more.
Aged 16-19? Get training, work experience and paid job opportunities to help you make your own future on your own terms.
Explore if self-employment could be right for you and where to get more support.
