Foundation Apprenticeships

To build on the progress of the MA programme, a new strand of the apprenticeship family has been developed. Foundation Apprenticeships: Bringing education closer to industry. Foundation Apprenticeships give school pupils a taste of the world of work and help employers shape future talent.

Foundation Apprentices

Sharron Rodgers, Foundation Apprenticeship Manager at West College Scotland, talks about Foundation Apprenticeships

“A foundation apprenticeship is an excellent opportunity for senior phase pupils (S5/S6)– it allows them to gain a qualification the same level as a Higher whilst gaining valuable work experience. FA’s cover 12 different sector area’s which not only gives young people an insight into the industry but develops and enhances their employability skills and builds confidence”

A win-win for all

Andrew McCall, Foundation Apprenticeship Employer Engagement Coordinator says businesses benefit from supporting the Foundation Apprenticeship programme, “Across all industries employers are seeing real value in supporting a Foundation Apprentice within their team. So much so many of our partners are looking at progressions to Modern and Graduate Apprenticeship opportunities to further support the learners’ developments.”

Supporting Foundation Apprenticeships

Foundation Apprenticeships are a great way to explore career options before committing to full-time studies in a specific subject area. They are also a great opportunity to network with employers, build skills and explore an environment not offered in schools.

West College Scotland is delighted to be working in partnership with Skills Development Scotland to deliver 9 exciting Foundation Apprenticeships for S5 & S6 pupils in our local schools.

A Foundation Apprenticeship will take an S5 pupil two years to complete, and is the same level of learning as a Higher (SCQF level 6). As pupils are working towards their qualification they will spend time out of school at college and with a local employer. We also offer shorter duration delivery models for S5/S6 pupils.

Check out Holly's experience as a Foundation Apprentice:

Want to know more?

Browse Foundation Apprenticeship Courses