Foundation Apprenticeships are new qualifications aimed at young people still attending school. They’re available in a wide variety of subjects and take one or two years to complete, usually starting in S5 or S6.
If you’re a parent or guardian and wondering if a Foundation Apprenticeship would be suitable for your son or daughter – here’s what you need to know:
They can be studied alongside other qualifications
A Foundation Apprenticeship counts as just one subject choice at school. Pupils can still work towards Highers and National 5 awards at the same time.
They’re at the same level as a Higher
A Foundation Apprenticeships is at SCQF Level 6, the same level as a Scottish Higher. They are also being accepted as an entry requirement at most Scottish universities.
They offer increased choice for pupils
Foundation Apprenticeships are available in subjects not readily available in most schools.
They have a vocational focus
Foundation Apprenticeships are a great option for those who have never really enjoyed academic study. They develop practical skills and offer real, hands-on experience. It’s a totally different way of learning and a chance to get involved in real projects.
They can lead to many different career paths
A Foundation Apprenticeship can lead to many different career paths including direct to employment, a Modern Apprenticeship, a graduate level apprenticeship or college/university.
They’re backed by major employers
Some of Scotland’s biggest employers are involved in offering placements to pupils including the NHS, Barclays and Network Rail.
They can help young people stand out from the crowd
Foundation Apprenticeships offer young people the chance to develop hands-on skills and experience real projects – both of which are attractive to future employers.
They offer a taster of a career
Foundation Apprenticeships offer the chance to try out a career before committing to a job or further study.
Forth Valley College currently has places available on a range of Foundation Apprenticeships starting in August 2019 - in subjects such as childcare, health and social care, and engineering.
If your son or daughter would like to find out more, please encourage them to speak to their pupil support teacher.