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Post-16

Education or training after the end of Year 11 (England and Wales), S4 (Scotland) or Year 12 (Northern Ireland).

Used in
All four UK nations (details may differ)
Topic
Phases and year groups

Being checked against official sources. This definition is written in our own words; always check the official guidance for your country.

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Sixth form England Wales Northern Ireland
The two final years of secondary education (Years 12 and 13 in England and Wales, Years 13 and 14 in Northern Ireland), usually for students aged 16 to 18 studying A levels or equivalent courses.
Further education (FE) All four UK nations (details may differ)
Education after compulsory school age that is not higher education, such as A levels, vocational courses, apprenticeships and adult courses, often in a further education college.
Raising of the participation age (RPA) England
The rule in England that young people must stay in education or training until their 18th birthday, either full-time study, an apprenticeship or traineeship, or part-time study alongside work or volunteering.

More terms: Phases and year groups

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Definitions are written by Classfern in our own words for teachers in the UK and the US. They are short explanations, not legal or official definitions: always check the official guidance for your country, nation or state. Classfern is not affiliated with or endorsed by any government department, inspectorate or exam board named here.