The Automotive Foundation Apprenticeship will teach you about the car and transport industry. You may want to choose this course if you are interested one day becoming a mechanic, an engineer, selling cars or parts, or just want to learn more about the industry. Automotive jobs involve using exciting new technology and are vital to Scotland.
Automotive covers a range of jobs, like:
- Light motor vehicle technician
- Heavy motor vehicle technician
- Auto electrical technician
- Roadside assistance engineer
- Parts distribution operative
The automotive industry contributes greatly to the Scottish economy and offers a wide range of careers and development opportunities for all.
What is the qualification?
You’ll gain a Foundation Apprenticeship in Automotive at SCQF Level 4, which is the same level of learning as a National 4.
This includes:
- Skills for Work award in Automotive Skills (SCQF Level 4)
- Work Based Challenge Unit (SCQF Level 4)
What will I learn?
Your Skills for Work award will cover:
- The car
- The garage
- The technician
- Vehicle modification
You will use the skills and knowledge you develop in your Skills for Work Award to successfully complete the work-based challenge unit. You will:
- Work closely with an employer
- Deliver your project to a real-life client
- Develop an understanding of the automotive industry
Your Foundation Apprenticeship will also help you to develop meta-skills. These skills are highly valued by employers. Meta-skills include:
- Self-management
- Social intelligence
- Innovation
These meta-skills are necessary and highly desirable for working in a range of other related jobs.
Where could it take me?
Your Foundation Apprenticeship gives you lots of options; it’s up to you where you go next.
- A Modern Apprenticeship: On completing your Foundation Apprenticeship, you’ll have the knowledge and experience to progress your career through a Modern Apprenticeship at SCQF level 5 or SCQF level 6
- Further education: Continue your studies at college with a related subject. Your work-based learning will support your college application.
- Straight to a job: By developing your technical and meta skills, alongside your understanding of industry, you will have the key skills employers want.
How will it work?
You'll complete your Foundation Apprenticeship at school, alongside your other subjects. You'll spend time learning with a provider, such as a college, and with an employer on a practical work project. It'll give your career a head-start, and look great on your CV.
How can I apply?
If you're in S3 to S6, you can do a Foundation Apprenticeship.
If you're interested in studying a Foundation Apprenticeship at level 4 or 5, speak to your guidance teacher or careers adviser to find out what's available in your school.