Construction
Foundation Apprenticeship
What's Construction like?
The construction industry offers a broad range of opportunities to all. Whether you’re working on site or behind a drawing board, in construction you'll shape and build the world.
Construction covers a huge range of jobs, such as:
building services engineer
building surveyor
site manager
stonemason
carpenter
civil engineer
The industry’s workforce is ageing and there is demand to fill the skills gap.
If you’re a practical thinker with a knack for technical processes, this industry could be your perfect match.
You’ll gain a Foundation Apprenticeship in Construction at either SCQF Level 4 or 5. That's the same level of learning as a National 4 or National 5.
SCQF qualification levels explained
Your qualification includes:
National Progression Award in Construction Skills at SCQF Level 4
work-based challenge unit at SCQF Level 4
National Progression Award in Construction Skills at SCQF Level 5
work-based challenge unit at SCQF Level 5
Your National Progression award will cover a variety of units and may include:
built environment
3D modelling
carpentry and bench joinery
painting and decorating
You'll use the skills and knowledge you develop to complete the work-based challenge unit. You'll:
work closely with an employer
deliver your project to a real-life client
get an understanding of the construction sector
Your Foundation Apprenticeship will also help you to develop meta-skills. Employers value these skills, which include:
self-management
social intelligence
innovation
You'll need these transferable skills for working in a range of other related jobs.
Your Foundation Apprenticeship gives you lots of options, including:
Modern Apprenticeship: When you complete your Foundation Apprenticeship, you can move to a Modern Apprenticeship at SCQF Level 5 or 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, and your understanding of industry, you'll have the skills employers want.
Entry requirements
If you're staying on at school, you can apply for a Foundation Apprenticeship.
How does it work?
You'll complete your Foundation Apprenticeship at school, alongside your other subjects. You'll learn with a provider, such as a college, and work with an employer on a practical project. It'll give your career a head-start and look great on your CV.
How long will it take?
It should take 1 year. You could start in S3, S4, S5 or S6.
How to apply
If you're in S3 to S6, you can do a Foundation Apprenticeship.
Want to do a Foundation Apprenticeship at SCQF Level 4 or 5, like this one? Speak to your guidance teacher or careers adviser to see what's available in your school.