A dedicated web page on Darlington Borough Council’s website: www.darlington.gov.uk/choicespost16 gives details of local colleges, other further education options, apprenticeship providers and where young people can go to find out more information and advice about careers and their own personal circumstances.
The page details three post-16 colleges in Darlington: Queen Elizabeth Sixth Form, Darlington College and Carmel College as well as other options such as Learning & Skills and other local apprenticeship providers.
In addition, the page links to C: The One Stop Shop (formerly Connexions) where young people can pop in and get face to face advice and information or just browse what is on offer. They are based on Horsemarket in the centre of Darlington and no appointment is necessary. There is also a link to the Tees Valley Skills Portal which provides information on learning opportunities and careers in the Tees Valley and to the National Careers Service which provides information on wider choices and options
Councillor Cyndi Hughes, Darlington Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Children and Young People said:
“This is a stressful time for many young people and their parents as key decisions are made that will have a big impact on their future career and education. The good news is that there is help and advice out there and now is the time to find out what choices are available.
“Our local schools and colleges are also there to support students who may be uncertain about their next step. The main thing is not to panic, gather as much information as possible, and make an informed decision once results are known.”