Post-16 Careers Week 2025
Post-16 Careers Week 2025 is a week-long virtual careers fair for Years 10 to 13 students to help you start conversations and spark ideas about what comes next after finishing secondary school and college. Designed to showcase the borough’s education and employment options from 16+, Stockport Council and Stockport Jobs Match bring you a host of live events and resources to support your decision-making and next steps.
The online event takes place from Monday 29th September to Friday 3rd October and provides invaluable careers advice to local schools, students, parents and carers to help you make informed choices about what and where to study. All sessions and resources are free to attend, helping to raise aspirations and inspire young people about the fantastic range of careers available in Stockport now and in the future.
The event builds on last year’s success, when 27 secondary schools, colleges, sixth forms, and further and higher education providers, as well as around 6,000 students in Years 10 and 11 were able to take advantage of a number of interactive sessions.
Find out what’s happening this year and how to take advantage of the free resources available…
College & Sixth Form Prospectus 2026
Not sure about what you’d like to study after GCSEs? Don’t quite know the difference between A-Levels and T-Levels? Want to know which colleges offer the course you want, or how to sign-up for an Apprenticeship?
Our 50+ page Digital College & Sixth Form Prospectus 2026 is the place to start. It’s a complete guide to your education and training options after secondary school (starting September 2026), with an overview of all the local colleges, sixth forms and training providers in and around Stockport. You’ll be able to find out what courses are on offer and how they compare, as well as getting vital information on how to apply – from key open dates to pop in your calendar to contact details and virtual tours.
It’s a completely digitally enabled document, that works beautifully on a mobile or tablet device (as well as your traditional PC!) making it easier to get informed about your next steps from anywhere.
16+ Booklet for Students with an EHCP or Disability
16 to 18 year olds with an Education Health and Care (EHC) Plan will receive an Annual Review in Year 10 to help you start thinking about your next steps. In Year 11, your school will arrange for you to speak to a careers advisor, explore your options and apply for education or training.
For further advice and information on your Post-16 education or training options, you can download our 16+ Booklet for SEND students. This explains more about where you can study (including courses at Stockport College and PURE College), as well as the Local Offer, Supported Internships and where you can access support on preparing for adulthood.
Live Evening Q&A Information Events for Students, Parents & Carers
It’s really important to get talking about your options for when you leave secondary school, sixth form, college or finish an apprenticeship. Our Evening Webinar sessions at 7:00-8.00pm on Monday 29th Sept, Tuesday 30th Sept and Wednesday 1st Oct are designed for students, parents and carers, teachers and advisors who want to know more about the careers and pathways available for young people.
Choosing to Study A-Levels | Sixth Form Q&A
Monday 29th September 7.00-8.00pm
In case you missed it, watch the video to hear from the Admissions and Careers Teams at local colleges and sixth forms. A great opportunity to learn more about the subjects available, the application process, entry requirements, facilities and pastoral support, what happens on results day and enrolment.
Guest speakers during the webinar included:
- Aquinas Sixth Form College
- Loreto Sixth Form College
- Hazel Grove Sixth Form
- Marple Sixth Form College
- Xaverian Sixth Form College
Studying T-Levels, BTECs and NVQs | Vocational & Technical Colleges Q&A
Tuesday 30th September 7.00-8.00pm
In case you missed it, watch the video to hear from the Admissions and Careers Teams at local colleges and training providers. A great opportunity to learn more about the courses and qualifications available, the application process, entry requirements, facilities and more. We were also joined by local employer, Adecco, to explain more about T-levels and how the work placements operate.
Guest speakers during the webinar included:
- Stockport College
- The Manchester College
- Macclesfield College
- T-Level Employer and Student
Apprenticeships at 16+ and 18+ | Q&A
Wednesday 1st October 7.00-8.00pm
In case you missed it, watch the video to hear a complete introduction to choosing apprenticeships at 16, or higher or degree apprenticeships at 18. Apprenticeships are a fantastic way to gain qualifications, develop your skills and get paid – all at the same time! We spoke to from colleges, universities, training providers and employers about applying for an apprenticeship and what’s involved.
Guest speakers on the evening included:
- Stockport College
- The Growth Company
- Manchester Metropolitan University
- Local Employers – including Nexperia, Stockport Council and Stockport Homes Group
Lunchtime Live for Students with SEND or an EHCP
In case you missed it, watch our video to find out about your options if you’re a young person with SEND, an EHCP or additional support needs. Explore the support available from college, independent training providers and partner organisations. Learn about supported internships, alternative provision and courses available to support your next steps after secondary schools. Feel confident about your next steps and preparing for transitions and adulthood.
Ask your questions to our expert panel, including:
- PACT Stockport
- GMCA
- Stockport College
- Stockport Council
- Pure College
Free Student Resources & Planning Tools
As part of Post-16 Careers Week 2025, you also have access to a range of free student resources to access in school or at home. From sample college application forms to worksheets to help you plan your next steps, a checklist for college open days to a CV template for apprenticeships – you’ll find everything you need to help you consider and get prepared for what comes next.
If you’re struggling to choose the right path for you, why not browse our range of Employer Videos to get inspired by local residents showcasing their careers in Stockport businesses or take a look at our range of Career Guides to understand what qualifications or courses you might need.
We’ve also produced a fantastic range of NEW videos for 2025. Hear from local students and employers sharing their thoughts on choosing A-Levels, T-Levels, Apprenticeships, Work Experience and Starting College. Scroll through the banner below to watch the short clips to start conversations and spark ideas about your next steps.
