Is a Foundation Apprenticeship an option for you?

Foundation Apprenticeships (FAs) are a fantastic way to learn valuable skills and get work experience while you're still at school. 

What's a Foundation Apprenticeship?

You do some work experience with an employer, and some study at a college or training centre. It takes one or two days a week, over one or two years. And you do it all in school time. 

At the end of the apprenticeship, you'll gain an SQA qualification! 

Can I take an FA as an option choice? 

Yes, you can choose a Foundation Apprenticeship when you pick your options in senior school. All schools offer different FAs but they could include, for example, Business Skills, Engineering or Creative and Digital Media.  

They’re usually available in S5 or S6, with some schools doing them in S3 and S4, too.  

In this video, some of our colleagues explain a bit more about FAs. 

What qualifications will I get from a Foundation Apprenticeship?

Most FAs are at SCQF Level 6, so you get a qualification equal to a Higher.  

If it’s at SCQF Level 4 or 5, it’s equal to a National 4 or 5.  

So they’re just as valid as traditional qualifications and are great for your CV. 

Find out what it’s like from Foundation Apprentices  

Our apprentices at Skills Development Scotland give you the inside story! 

What’s your favourite thing about your FA?

“One of my favourite things is getting to experience two different learning environments – college and work. It's a big change from school but it suits me more. I've developed my interpersonal skills, specifically my communication.  I've also loved getting to meet lots of new people in college and in the workplace. It's been very inspiring when thinking about my further education and career choices.” Emma HamiltonFoundation Apprentice, Business Skills 

“I worked with like-minded people and experts to build on my video production skills. For one task, I worked on a video project from start to finish. This involved me creating storyboards, filming, clipping and editing the video piece.  The final video was then used on social media and the website, a pretty cool feeling.”  Nat AndersonFoundation Apprentice, Creative and Digital Media 

How do FAs help prepare for college or university?

“I'm doing a Business Skills Foundation Apprenticeship at SCQF Level 6, the same level as a Higher. You also get work experience and, for me, this was as important as the qualification because it looks great on my CV.”Rory GrahamFoundation Apprentice, Business Skills

Did your FA match your expectations?

“I'm doing a Business Skills FA. At the start, I was unsure what to expect. I knew it'd be a big change from the way I'm used to learning and studying at school. I'd say it has exceeded my expectations! I've developed a better understanding of business from a theory and practical standpoint. I'm gaining exposure to the work environment and building my skills.” Yaxuan WangFoundation Apprentice, Business Skills