How can i gain photography experience?

I am 17 and i am studying A Level photography at college, for my AS exam i got an 'A' and this year i am on track for an 'A*' (so my teacher says) but i am not going to university, and would ideally like to get a job as a professional photographer, i know this is really difficult to do, but am wondering if anyone knows how i can go about doing this, or just gaining experience. i am looking for placements in Salisbury