Not continuing with education after 16?

Hey,

I'm currently in year 11 and as such am thinking about what I should aim to be doing once I've left school. I understand that you are required to stay in some form of education until your 18th birthday. However, I'm currently employed as a programmer and I do this work alongside school. I've never been a huge fan of the education system since it's not been particularly great at educating me in things I actually use on a daily basis as a programmer. Instead, I've had to teach these skills to myself over a number of years.

Anyway, my employer is unable to offer me an apprenticeship and I am very much so against the thought of going to college. I'm curious as to whether there would be any consequences if I chose not to attend college or proceed with any form of education? Instead, my employment would just become full-time and I'd continue on with my dream job. I understand the importance of qualifications, but I already have an immense amount of experience in this sector.

I'm sure many people will view this as a bad choice and state that I'll probably struggle with employment and earning higher wages. But, that is not exactly what I am asking, I just want to ensure that there will not be negative consequences for my parents in regards to fines and so on. Additionally, I would have just turned 17 on the day I would be expected to start my college course and so I would only be a year off from this law.

Thanks for reading, I'd appreciate any input on this!