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Practical advice to help you support your teen through exams, choices, wellbeing and their next steps.
Options at 18
Written specifically for parents, read the latest on all topics relating to options at 18 - from apprenticeships to university.


A brief history of apprenticeships
Apprenticeships date back to the 14th century. Here's how they've evolved into the credible, wide-ranging route they are today.

The Parents’ Guide To
2 min read


3 steps in helping your teen find the right apprenticeship
Apprenticeships differ in entry level, qualifications, length and the balance of work and study. Here are the three key things to consider.

The Parents’ Guide To
3 min read


How to help your teen cope with university rejections
A university rejection can feel devastating. Here are six ways to support your teen through it and help them refocus on their options.

The Parents’ Guide To
2 min read


Getting a degree - is an apprenticeship or university the right choice for your child?
Since 2015, degree apprenticeships have offered a viable alternative to university for gaining a full degree. Here's how the two routes compare.

The Parents’ Guide To
3 min read


Options after school or college: helping your child decide
What your child does after sixth form or college is exciting but can be nerve-racking. Here's an overview of the main options, and how to weigh them up.

The Parents’ Guide To
4 min read


How to help your teen choose the right university
Choosing the right university is one of the most important decisions in shaping your teen's future. Here's how to help them find the one that's right for them.

The Parents’ Guide To
6 min read


How to help your child choose the right university course
With over 30,000 courses available, the right one for your child is out there. Here's how to help them narrow it down, without choosing for them.

The Parents’ Guide To
4 min read


Is an apprenticeship the right choice for your child?
Apprenticeships combine study with paid work and a professional qualification, with no tuition fees. Here are the benefits and considerations to weigh up.

The Parents’ Guide To
3 min read


Apprenticeship levels - a summary
A brief summary of the apprenticeship levels, their typical length, entry requirements, qualifications obtained, and who they appeal to.

The Parents’ Guide To
1 min read


Getting started: how to help your child choose the right apprenticeship
Apprenticeships combine learning with on-the-job training and a professional qualification. Here's how to help your child choose the right level and sector.

The Parents’ Guide To
4 min read


The Parents' Guide to finding an apprenticeship
If your teen's decided an apprenticeship could be right for them, it's time to look at what's available. Here are the best places to search.

The Parents’ Guide To
3 min read


How to help your child apply for an apprenticeship - the application process
Applying for an apprenticeship is much like applying for a job. Here's how to help your child with the CV, application form, and interview, with example questions.

The Parents’ Guide To
6 min read


Getting the most out of university open days
Open days are a great chance to get a feel for a university. Here are our top tips for helping your child prepare and get the most out of the visit.

The Parents’ Guide To
2 min read


What is UCAS?
All UK undergraduate applications go through UCAS. Here's a plain-English guide to how it works, the deadlines, tariff points and the personal statement.

The Parents’ Guide To
4 min read


The dos and don'ts of UCAS personal statements
The UCAS personal statement is one of the hardest parts of a university application. Here are the most important dos and don'ts to help your child get it right.

The Parents’ Guide To
2 min read
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