Learn the skills you need for the future, while you're still at school
You sit a Foundation Apprenticeship over two years, usually starting in fifth year with your Highers and National 5s.
The difference is, you spend time away from school, at college and with an employer. So you get real, practical work experience.
Get a qualification that employers recognise and the skills you need to start a career in that industry
Open up your options after school
You get to work on real projects with an employer. Some of Scotland's biggest, best known organisations are involved, including Barclays, Network Rail, and the NHS
It's a chance to try a career out – so you can decide if it's right for you
An FA gives you skills employers want - like timekeeping, problem solving, communication and teamwork.
You’ll have connections with employers, work experience and a qualification recognised by industry.
All this looks great on your CV.
In the same subject: You could complete your MA quicker because you’ll have completed some elements of the MA during the FA.
In another subject: You’ll already have experience of learning on the job. That looks good to employers who are recruiting MAs.
You’ll have experience of learning through work – so you’re ready to do it at a higher level.
With a GLA, you can take your studies further, even up to Master’s degree level. All while you have a job.
Foundation Apprenticeships are recognised by many Scottish universities and colleges.
Your FA means you already have quality experience in the industry – this helps your UCAS or college application stand out.
Pick your area to see which courses are available. The Foundation Apprenticeship programme is still expanding, so what you can do depends on where your school is.
View subjectYou'll do your Foundation Apprenticeship out of school, probably through a local college. They can give you details about entry requirements, and how to apply.
In , this Foundation Apprenticeship is available at:
Find out from some of the pupils who've already done it.
'The Foundation Apprenticeship helped me broaden my horizons and improved my knowledge of working in a big financial services organisation.'
At a business breakfast event, FAs shared their experience of their apprenticeships with employers. Find out what they had to say.
Jenna and Heather's apprenticeship meant getting hands-on experience at Craigie House care home.
'I definitely think this will help me in the future, especially when I go to get a job. It shows from a young age I've had this experience and learned all these different things.'
Completing a Foundation Apprenticeship led Callum to apply for a Modern Apprenticeship.
‘Since I started doing the Foundation Apprenticeship, my confidence has grown a lot.’
'The Foundation Apprenticeship gives you an advantage when applying for jobs and attending interviews. Being able to say you’ve had experience working for a large company like Barclays makes you stand out as a candidate.'
Get a job. Get paid. Get qualified.
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Work your way towards a degree.
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Check out our frequently asked questions about Modern Apprenticeships.
FAQs
