→Untangling futures.
About Future Pathways 2026
Future Pathways 2026 is a free post-16 options festival that helps young people in Bedfordshire — and their parents and carers — understand and choose between the routes available after 16, all in one place.
- →When: Saturday 7 November 2026, 10am – 4pm
- →Where: University of Bedfordshire, Bedford Campus
- →Free entry — students, parents & carers welcome
Why it exists
Choosing what to do after 16 is one of the biggest decisions a young person makes — yet the options are easy to miss. Sixth form, college, apprenticeships, T Levels, university, training and employment each open different doors, and no single school assembly can cover them all.
Future Pathways brings the providers together under one roof so students can ask questions, compare routes and leave with a clearer sense of what suits them.
Who it’s for
The festival is aimed at students approaching their post-16 choices (typically Year 11) and the parents and carers supporting them. It is free to attend and open to everyone in the local community.
Who’s behind it
Future Pathways is organised by WHP Creative in partnership with Bedford Borough Council, bringing together schools, colleges, universities, training providers, apprenticeship providers and employers from across the region.
Schools, colleges, employers and providers: register your interest to exhibit and meet the next generation of talent.
Get involved
Students, parents and carers: explore the routes on offer and grab a free ticket.
Schools, colleges, employers and providers: register your interest to exhibit and meet the next generation of talent.