An increasing number of schools and colleges offer alternative qualifications to GCSE and A/AS levels. Such qualifications may have more of a vocational or business focus, and are a good way of gaining crucial language skills for work or social purposes. Post-GCSE, there are various NVQ language units on offer, as well as the Certificate of Business Language Competence. These qualifications may well include a work placement period, which could help you prepare for the workplace. Teachers will be able to advice you on these options, but you may also wish to look at the National Database of Accredited Qualifications.