Aged 16 to 19 years
If you have found out that you are pregnant and would like to speak to someone,
please go to the links section where you will find a list of relevant agencies that you can contact.
If you are pregnant or a parent in this age group and you wish to continue in your
education, there are a number of options for you to consider:
- To continue at school
You will need to speak
to your form teacher or year head about your plans to return to school. In some circumstances it may
be possible or necessary to transfer to a new school according to the subjects or courses that you want
to study.
- To attend a further and higher education college or institute
If
you are interested in a particular course, you should complete the correct application forms in plenty
of time before the new academic year begins in September. You should note that colleges or institutes
have a range of courses that take place at different times during the day. This might suit you better
according to your childcare arrangements.
- To take ‘time out’
You may decide that you would like to take time
to consider all the changes that are happening for you and therefore to take a year out from your education.
If you decide to do this, you should try to keep in contact with your family and friends who can offer
support and keep you informed of developments in your community. For example community-based education
programmes.
To continue your education there are three types of courses available
to you:
- Further education courses – these are the more traditional types
of academic courses which can be studied at school and at further and higher education colleges. For
example, GCSEs, A levels, diplomas, etc.
- Pre-vocational courses – these will allow you to return to a learning environment
without the pressure of being in a ‘formal’ classroom situation. These courses can give you the opportunity
to build up your confidence and study skills. The courses may be accredited which can lead to a recognised
qualification. Examples include basic computer training, assertiveness training, etc.
- Vocational courses – these courses lead to a recognised qualification such as NVQs
and GNVQs and they are linked to a particular career. There is a range of courses including Leisure
and Tourism, Information Technology, Health and Social Care, Childcare and Business Studies.
Funding
You may receive some funding according to the course that you decide to do. You
can contact the student advisor in the college to ask about the ‘Care to Learn Scheme’ which can provide
you with expenses toward travel and childcare costs.
Contact Details
Educational Guidance Service for Adults (EGSA)
6 Murray Street, Belfast 028 9024 4274
C/o The Central Library, Foyle Street, Derry
028 7127 1899
The Training and Employment Agency
Gloucester House, Chichester Street Belfast
028 9025 2222
For a list of further education colleges in each E.L.B. area please
go to the links section under Education and further education.
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