[UPDATE 06/05/2025: The information on this page, and the documents it refers to, has been updated with the outcomes of the consultation on the Council’s Post-16 Transport Policy Statement 2025/26, which closed on 28 February 2025. If you have any questions, please email post16@scilly.gov.uk or call 0300 1234 105]
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The Isles of Scilly has one all-through school, the Five Islands Academy which caters for pupils from Reception (Rising 5) to Year 11 (age 16). Visit the Five Islands Academy website for further information.
Supporting young people into post-16 education, employment or training
The majority of young people on the Isles of Scilly access post-16 education or training on the mainland. After year 11 the options are either full-time education, an apprenticeship or training. The main pathways to consider are:
- 6th form Colleges or Schools: usually focus on A-level qualifications - two-year course followed by exams.
- Further Education Colleges: they may offer a wider range of courses including A-level and vocational qualifications that have assessed practical elements.
- Apprenticeships: a real job with training that can take 1-4 years to complete. The employer pays wages while you learn. Off the job training takes place either weekly or in blocks at college or university.
- Traineeships: are an opportunity for students aged 16-24 who do not have qualifications or experience to start an apprenticeship. They involve study and work placements and support finding a job or apprenticeship. This could also include Supported Internships.
Some young people want to go straight into employment, but this must include some guided learning hours.
More information about preparing for transition to post-16, including accommodation options can be accessed via the post-16 information booklet. You can also read about travel and transport arrangements in our post-16 transport policy statement.
Families can access a grant to be used flexibly towards travel and accommodation for their child participating in education or training on the mainland. This situation is unique to the local circumstances where on the Isles of Scilly young people have to travel outside of the Council’s area to the mainland to attend post-16 education or training. Applications are made to Children’s Services by completing the post 16 travel and accommodation grant application form. This form can be requested from and must be returned to post16@scilly.gov.uk
We also provide a model agreement for board and accommodation arrangements. Parents and accommodation providers may wish to download and make use of this example document when arranging for the board and accommodation for post-16 students on the mainland.
Please note: If your child has been educated out of area (that is not on the Isles of Scilly) we will not have any information about your child becoming eligible for travel and accommodation grants and it will be your responsibility to contact the Local Authority. You can contact the Children's Services on 0300 1234 105 or email post16@scilly.gov.uk