Career pathways in England

Two secondary school pupils sit at a desk in a classroom working together. One is writing in their text book.

English skills and career pathways 

There are many routes into an engineering or technology career in England.  

For students working at Level 1 or 2, there are lots of options. Students can gain qualifications such as GCSEs and vocational qualifications like BTEC Level 2. Maths, science, geography and design and technology are great subjects for students to choose.  

Students who like to get hands-on could also consider Intermediate Apprenticeships in engineering, ICT, construction, build environment, manufacturing and computing. 

Post-16 and Level 3 options include advanced apprenticeships, BTEC Level 3 and International Baccalaureate. Students can also consider A levels in maths, physics, engineering or design. Alternatively, T Levels provide placements in engineering roles, allowing students to learn on the job and get real, technical experience. 

In higher and further education, degree apprenticeships combine workplace training with studying. University degree courses can offer more general engineering courses, or cover specific fields of engineering, computer science, manufacturing or technology. 

Career route map

Considering option choices and future steps with your students? Map it out using our national career route map for England. Download it for free and display on your classroom wall.

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Careers resources 

Discover more careers resources to support your students. Find out more about what engineering is, the types of engineering jobs and what a future career looks like. 

Meet real engineers presentation

Introduce primary school pupils to real engineers with this handy presentation.

10 great reasons (Welsh language version)

10 great reasons reasons to become an engineer poster (Welsh language version). Show your students why they should work in STEM with this exciting poster.

10 great reasons to become an engineer

10 great reasons reasons to become an engineer poster. Show your students why they should work in STEM with this exciting poster.

100 jobs in STEM

Whatever their interests or skills, there's a job in STEM for every student. Download our poster and highlight 100 exciting job roles that link to STEM.

Engineer your future

Show students what their future in engineering could look like with this exciting editable presentation.

What is engineering?

Put engineering into context for your class with this helpful booklet. In 8 pages, this guide support students and teachers understand engineering.

My world, my future

From days out to podcasts there are many ways to inspire an interest in STEM. Download our free guide for students of all ages.

From idea to career

What is civil engineering? What do mechanical engineers do? Explore 12 engineering sectors in this booklet.

This is engineering posters

A set of 6 A3 size posters from the 'This is Engineering' campaign which really bring engineering to life.

Career route map for Scotland (Welsh language version)

Career route map for Scotland (Welsh language version). This detailed route map showing possible routes into an engineering/technology career, through education and training in Scotland.

Career route map for Northern Ireland

Career pathways into engineering and technology for young people in Northern Ireland are varied. From GCSEs, BTECs and A levels to apprenticeships, TQUK Diplomas and degree courses.

Career route map for Scotland

From National Qualifications, Highers and National Progression Awards to modern apprenticeships, degrees and Higher National Certificates students in Scotland have a range of pathways to choose from.

Real jobs

Hear from real people doing real engineering and technology jobs. Watch our short videos to learn what these inspiring STEM professionals love about their role, what they do and how they got started. These case studies showcase different industries, roles and career paths. 

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