Moving on From School

Once You Leave School: Your 3 Main Options

1. Start an Apprenticeship

An apprenticeship combines practical job training with study. As an apprentice, you will:
- Work alongside experienced staff

Gain job-specific skills
Earn a wage and receive holiday pay
Get time for study related to your role (usually one day a week)

Apprenticeships typically take between 1 to 5 years to complete, depending on the level.
You will be paid for your apprenticeship. The minimum wage for apprentices is £6.40 per hour, though some employers may pay more.
You are also entitled to at least 20 days of paid holiday per year, plus bank holidays.

2. Get a Job

There is a wide range of work available for school leavers, and there is a National Minimum Wage. The rates vary by age and are updated every April. For 2024, the rates are:
- Under 18: £6.40 per hour
- 18 to 20: £8.60 per hour
- 21 and over: £11.44 per hour
The National Minimum Wage is the legal minimum an employer must pay. However, some employers may pay more, depending on factors like:
- The level of responsibility in the role
- The skills required for the role
- The level of experience they are seeking

3. Go to University or College

In Scotland, most university courses last for 4 years, while college course durations depend on what you study and at what level.
If you live in Scotland and choose to study at a Scottish university, you can apply through SAAS (Student Awards Agency Scotland) to have your tuition fees paid. SAAS also offers bursaries and student loans: Student Awards Agency Scotland – SAAS.
Living costs such as accommodation, food, study materials, travel, and leisure vary depending on where you study. The UK average for living costs is estimated to be around £230 per week.

SAAS Funding for Tuition Fees

If you live in Scotland, the Student Awards Agency for Scotland (SAAS) may cover your tuition fees. The amount SAAS will pay depends on several factors, including:

Your age
Your family situation (e.g., if you have children)
Where you study
If you’ve taken previous courses
The type of course you are taking

Once your application is processed, SAAS will pay your tuition fees directly to your university or college. You are not required to contribute any extra fees. However, you must reapply for tuition fee coverage each year for the duration of your course. For more information or to apply, contact SAAS.

If You Don’t Finish Your Course

If you withdraw from your course during the term, you may need to repay a portion of your bursary. If you’re unable to afford this, seek advice as soon as possible.

Student Loans and Bursaries

New and continuing students can apply to SAAS for a student loan to help cover living costs. The amount of help you receive may depend on your household income. Regardless of income or circumstances, eligible students can apply for a loan of up to £8,400 (for 2024/25).

In addition to a student loan, you may also be eligible for a bursary to help with living costs. Unlike a loan, you don’t have to repay a bursary. The amount you receive will depend on your household income, which may include:

Income from parents or stepparents
Income from a partner or spouse
Unearned income (e.g., pensions)

Payment Schedule

Payments over term time: You will receive a double payment at the start of your course, followed by monthly payments. Be aware that there will be a gap in payments over the summer months.
Payments over the year: Payments are spread evenly across the entire year. Regardless of your loan or bursary amount, you must reapply each year for the duration of your course.

Additional Information

Claiming Benefits During Summer Holidays: Full-time students may be eligible to claim benefits over the summer between academic years, but this only applies in specific circumstances. For advice, contact us.