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. 

Engineer your future presentation

The presentation informs and inspires young people about the range of careers in engineering and technology.

From idea to career (Welsh language version)

What is civil engineering? What do mechanical engineers do? There are lots of different types of engineering careers available.

What is engineering? (Welsh language version)

Put engineering into context for your class with this 8 page booklet. Supports students and teachers understand engineering.

Engineer your future (Welsh language version)

Peiriannu'ch dyfodol shows students what a future in engineering and technology could look like. Use this exciting presentation to inform and inspire.

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.

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.

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 (Welsh language version)

Career route map for Northern Ireland (Welsh language version). Career pathways into engineering and technology for young people in Northern Ireland are varied.

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.

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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