Foundation Apprenticeships at SCQF Levels 4 and 5

How this pilot programme works and how to get involved with Foundation Apprenticeships.

Skills Development Scotland is currently piloting Foundation Apprenticeships at SCQF Levels 4 and 5. This means there are even more opportunities for work-based learning in schools. The three subjects at SCQF Levels 4 and 5 are Automotive, Construction and Hospitality.

To find out more about SCQF Levels, view the framework on the SCQF website.

Employer + apprentice - Aggreko + Harley 1

How it works

  • The pupil picks a Level 4/5 Foundation Apprenticeship as a subject choice at S3 and up to S6.

  • The employer sets a project for the pupil.

  • The pupil gets support from experts to develop and deliver the project throughout the academic year.

  • A work-based challenge is a key part of the project-based learning. Learners identify and use their meta skills - such as creativity, team-working and problem solving - and the required technical skills.

  • A learning provider, such as a college, assesses the project.

  • Employers make a structured and regular contribution to the programme. This helps learners to understand the variety of roles and opportunities in an industry.

The school you work with will be able to tell you if SCQF Levels 4 and 5 Foundation Apprenticeship opportunities are available to pupils.

What are the benefits?

SCQF Levels 4 and 5 Foundation Apprenticeships will enable employers to promote careers within their industry and find their future workforce.

They will enable young people to:

  • engage with local employers, get a taste of a sector and understand career opportunities

  • gain work-related technical and meta skills, which are identified by employers as critical

  • have the chance to progress to a Foundation Apprenticeship at SCQF Level 6

  • develop skills to support a future journey into a Modern or Graduate Apprenticeship or further education

Get involved

Find out more about Foundation Apprenticeships SCQF Levels 4/5 or Level 6

Get in touch

If you're an employer or learning provider who wants to find out more information or get involved in Foundation Apprenticeships at SCQF Levels 4 and 5, please get in touch.

Foundation Apprenticeships SCQF Level 6

Foundation Apprenticeships are available at SCQF Level 6 across the country for S5 and S6 pupils.