Yorkshire Learning Providers Launch Leeds 16-18 Directory to Support Young People

As part of our commitment to addressing NEET challenges across Yorkshire, and the heightened focus on Leeds we have launched the Leeds 16-18 directory and search function

This offers a centralised resource to guide young people, employers, and partners through the city’s post-16 study programme, apprenticeship, and T-Level opportunities.

The directory brings together study programme providers across Leeds, signposting all post-16 options and connecting young people with apprenticeships through the Yorkshire Apprenticeship Service (YAS). It includes an online search function to help learners, employers, and training providers easily find tailored programmes and training opportunities across the city.

YLP’s mission is to strengthen the delivery of high-quality apprenticeships, skills training, and work-based learning across Yorkshire. As a not-for-profit network, YLP works collaboratively with members, employers, and strategic partners to champion the value of skills, influence regional policy, and ensure local training provision remains inclusive and employer-led.

About the Leeds 16–18 Directory

The directory provides essential guidance on a wide range of post-16 options, including:

• Study Programmes: Flexible, tailored courses for 16–19-year-olds that combine education, work experience, employability, and personal development.
• Apprenticeships: Paid work-based learning opportunities with nationally recognised qualifications, offered by large employers such as HSBC, Amazon, Leeds United, ASDA, NHS, and local organisations.
• T-Levels: Two-year technical programmes equivalent to three A-Levels, featuring at least 315 hours of industry placement.
• Supported Internships: Structured work-based learning for 16–24-year-olds with SEND, with personalised programmes and workplace support.
• Specialist and Alternative Provision: Options for learners with complex needs or barriers to mainstream education, including EHCP/EOTAS, elective home education, flexischooling, online learning, and vocational qualifications.

The directory will be shared widely with local authorities, West Yorkshire Police, Youth Justice, Young Lives Leeds, voluntary organisations, NHS trusts, and education partners to raise awareness of the full range of post-16 opportunities available in Leeds.

John Hamilton, Head of Business Development at Gateway Qualifications noted that “Gateway Qualifications is proud to support the Post 16 Directory as part of our commitment to supporting learners and educators. Our goal is to provide accessible, high-quality qualifications that empower individuals to achieve their ambitions and help organisations deliver meaningful outcomes and empower learners to be able to make the right choice for them in their area.