Education

When can I leave school?

At what age can I leave school?

You can leave school on the last Friday in June of the school year in which you reach 16 years of age.

However, even though you don’t have to stay in school, you must stay in education, training, or employment until you’re 18.

What options do I have between 16-18?

Between 16-18 you will be able to choose from:

  • full-time education (for example at a school or college)
  • an apprenticeship or traineeship
  • part-time education or training combined with one of the following: employment or self-employment for 20 hours or more a week OR volunteering for 20 hours or more a week.

There is more information on this in the government guidance on Participation of Young People in Education, Employment or Training.

On this page
At what age can I leave school?
What options do I have between 16-18?

This information is correct at the time of writing, August 14, 2025. The law in this area is subject to change.

Coram Children’s Legal Centre cannot be held responsible if changes to the law outdate this publication. Individuals may print or photocopy information in CCLC publications for their personal use.

Professionals, organisations and institutions must obtain permission from the CCLC to print or photocopy our publications in full or in part.

This information is correct at the time of writing, August 14, 2025. The law in this area is subject to change.

Coram Children’s Legal Centre cannot be held responsible if changes to the law outdate this publication. Individuals may print or photocopy information in CCLC publications for their personal use.

Professionals, organisations and institutions must obtain permission from the CCLC to print or photocopy our publications in full or in part.