A-level results are out and students will now begin the next chapter, whether that’s at university or joining the workforce straightaway.

The Examiner asked people in Strand Street, Douglas, if going to university should be encouraged.

’I definitely think education is a good thing and should be encouraged,’ said James Tye, 39, from Anglesey. ’It seems that more countries are becoming less and less educated these days.

’I didn’t get a degree. I did sixth form then I went on to college and now I work in aviation as an engineer.

’I started from the bottom up and personally I think that’s the better way to do it [in this field].’

Sarah Murphey, 32, from Douglas, said: ’You don’t have to go to university to get a good job, but people should be encouraged to do both.

’I went through clearing to study geography and geology and got in to the University of Leicester. I’m now working as a business analyst, which is something they wouldn’t have told you about in school.

’I’ve told people not to worry about not getting what they want. Going through clearing was depressing at the time, but it’s all worked out! I didn’t think I would be where I am now and I really enjoy my job.’

Douglas resident Jason Taylor, 23, said: ’It’s each to their own. If you want to go to university, then go. If you don’t, then do something that doesn’t mean you’re just sitting on the dole. That’s the way I see it.’

Bryony Skellorn, 22, from Ramsey, told the Examiner that she studied at AS-level for half a year before leaving to find work.

’I wanted money and I wanted to spend,’ she said. ’I did college and got a job when I was around 16/17. I went back to college and got a diploma and will be going back again to study in September. I’m currently working in human resources.

’It’s a big decision choosing your whole career. I feel like kids are pressured into A-levels, to university and then they’re dropped into the work place.’

Her friend, Christy Whitton, 32, from Baldrine, said: ’All my friends went to university so I followed along with the line. I did a degree that didn’t have a job at the end of it - English and film studies joint degree. It was a good degree and I enjoyed university.

’I had a few jobs in film, but the only way is to go to London and I didn’t want to go there. Now I’m an office co-ordinator and have been there for nine years. The company’s so good! Even if your degree has got nothing to do with what you’re doing, it still shows commitment.’

Barry Armstrong, 39, from Douglas, said: ’I think university is becoming less relevant. I know so many people who went to university to study marketing and then got a job not related to it at all. As far as I’m concerned that’s a waste of three to four years.’

Both he and his friend, Jonathan Broad, 36, from Douglas, went straight into the work field where they have been in IT for around 20 years each.

Barry, a software engineer, added: ’Had I had gone to university would I have as much money? Probably not.’

Jonathan added: ’University does give people that time away to chill out and get off the Isle of Man. We might have missed out on that opportunity.’