Id also be concerned about someone leaving school with only GCSES. Jobs like you describe are surely not that secure? However I know the funding to support children of that age in study is being withdrawn so I assume that this is the motivation for getting a job?

6th form is all about other things as well as A levels, interacting with your peer group, having fun, planning for the future with all the support of the schools careers service. Kids change their minds so much at that age and need careful guidance. Its also difficult with wishing to be independent and free of the constraints of school. However 6th forms tend to be more free than say 5th form and GCSEs.

I also wanted to leave school at 16 and do my A levels at the local Tech where it was all a bit more casual and I didnt have to go in full time. My parents fought against my doing it and in the end I agreed with the advice I was given and stayed on to do A levels. I wasnt very motivated but to be honest if Id relied on driving myself on at the Tech I dont think Id have got very far as my self motivation ( as proved in the first year of my degree course) wasnt exactly fantastic.

As unattractive as it seems , Id suggest that someone stays at school and try and get work on Saturdays (which I did) and school holidays if extra cash or work experience is needed.