Your fast-track to success: how to kick start your future while still at school

Your fast-track to success: how to kick start your future while still at school
Foundation Apprentice

We're offering pupils the chance to study with us while still at school, and we are hoping teachers and parents will help sign them up.

These courses are for school pupils moving into S4, S5 and S6 in August 2021, who can join their vocational courses as one of their subject options, alongside their school-based National and Higher qualifications.

Everyone has heard the phrase ‘school’s not for everyone’, but even if it was, our School Partnership courses can enhance, improve and develop on what senior school pupils are learning at secondary.

A winning combination

Another advantage is that we are one of Scotland’s best colleges, leading the way in STEM subject areas and boasting industry experts across all our teaching departments.

It is a real win, win situation as it gives pupils a taste of what to expect in further or higher education, and takes the anxiety away from them when they eventually leave school and make their next step in education. It also encourages more independence, responsibility and maturity and allows them to experience a whole range of leisure activities and social networks.

HNC fast-track

Pupils entering S5 in August and planning to continue in school in S6 can sign up to study a Higher National Certificate (HNC) over the two years.  HNCs are currently available in Computing and Police Studies. They are at the same level as an Advanced Higher and on completion can lead on to some HND courses, or even directly into year two of some degree courses at university.

Foundation Apprenticeships

The college can also offer pupils entering S5 with a choice of 12 new Foundation Apprenticeship courses, developed by Skills Development Scotland, in conjunction with industry bodies.  Foundation Apprenticeships are at the same level as a Higher, are also studied over two years and involve learning in the workplace with a local employer, as well as studying at college. Successful completion of most Foundation Apprenticeships gives a guaranteed place on an HNC at the college, or a head start with a Modern Apprenticeship.

The qualifications are also accepted by most Scottish universities as equivalent to a Higher. Foundation Apprenticeships are available in Accountancy, Business Skills, Civil Engineering, Construction, Engineering, Media, IT Hardware and System Support, Software Development, Scientific Technologies, Hospitality, Social Services Healthcare and Working with Children and Young People.

A wide range of courses

National Progression Awards (NPA) are also available for school pupils in Exercise and Fitness Leadership, Sport and Fitness: Individual Sports and Sound Production. Skills For Work (SFW) is another option for school pupils to consider at FVC and subjects include Creative Industries, Early Education and Childcare and Engineering Skills. An Introduction to Hair and Beauty and a School Link in Make-up Artistry might also spark an interest in senior phase pupils.

What an opportunity this is to get ahead of the game before leaving school – go on, help them make their next move!

Pupils interested in these courses should talk to their pupil support teacher. For more information and  to view our courses click here.