What happens after Y13?

[PickingFruit]

DD hasn’t been interested in going to Uni since before sixth form. DH and I went, as did everyone in our family. We’ve said from the start that there’s no pressure from us to go. It’s her choice, we’ll support her decision. She’s prediction ABB minimum and is working very hard. Realistically AAB. Food science, psychology and geography.

She has a Saturday job, very sporty, has completed work experience in different fields. Sociable and well balanced. Mature for her age I’d say.

What are your 18/19 year olds doing who didn’t choose Uni? Genuinely interested!

Thanks. She’s happy to work and weigh up her options. She’ll end up visiting all of her friends who are going to Uni and ask them questions about their courses, living expenses etc. Do her research. She’s a pragmatic sort!

My DS now 20 finished A levels in 2024 and decided not to take up his uni offer as he wasn't sure it was the right path for him. He actually deferred his place to give him some thinking time.

He did a 6 week paid internship in insurance underwriting , then he took some professional exams while he worked part time at a supermarket and got a job in the insurance industry beating a Russell group graduate with a first in business to the job when it came down to a choice between the last two applicants.

This confirmed to him he was right not to take the uni place. He's having a great time and enjoying earning money knowing her doesn't have a student debt to worry about. He's now started saving up to buy somewhere to live with his girlfriend who also followed the exact same path into work.

My child did various jobs and then at the age of 29 is now doing OU for a subject they love and want a career in while working full time. No point in going to uni unless they really know what they want to do and for some that takes longer than others!