Engineering
Foundation Apprenticeship
Description
This Foundation Apprenticeship gives pupils an introduction to the skills that will help them move into a career in:
engineering
the advanced manufacturing sector
other engineering-related industries
Examples of course units include:
NC Engineering - units depend on discipline chosen
Complying with statutory regulations and organisational safety requirements
Using and interpreting engineering data and documentation
Apprenticeship framework(s)
Successful candidates will achieve a Foundation Apprenticeship in Engineering at SCQF Level 6. This is the same level of learning as an SQA Higher.
SCQF qualification levels explained
Select Level 6 to see the framework document and qualification at that level.
a National Certificate (NC) in an Engineering Discipline at SCQF Level 6, such as: Engineering Systems, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering
core units of an SVQ in Performing Engineering Operations at SCQF Level 5
work placement experience or an industry challenge
SCQF qualification levels explained
Download Foundation Apprenticeship - Engineering SCQF Level 6 framework document
Entry requirements
Potential apprentices are selected for the apprenticeship by their school. They'll go through a recruitment process arranged by the college or learning provider, which we encourage you to get involved in.
Pupils need to have a good level of written and spoken English and problem-solving skills. Working towards Higher maths is expected as maths is critical for engineering roles. Pupils should be creative and innovative. You may wish to use an aptitude test.
Progression and development
Pupils will have the right skills to move to a Modern Apprenticeship in engineering. They may decide to move on to further or higher education.
Are you looking to hire? A Foundation Apprenticeship helps you to spot talented pupils and assess their skills over a longer period than an interview.
How does it work?
Your role
As an employer, you decide what level of involvement you have in the Foundation Apprenticeship programme. You can discuss this with the learning provider you’re working with.
The work placement
Besides the classroom learning, pupils must complete work-related experience or an industry challenge. This should be based on real work and projects should be around 100 to 150 notional learning hours.
Cost and funding
There’s no financial cost to you as an employer because the learner is still at school. But investing your time can bring you lasting rewards, with talented young people in your workplace.
How long will it take?
It can take 1 year or 2 years. Pupils study a Level 6 Foundation Apprenticeship as one of their school subjects, usually over S5 and/or S6.
Besides the classroom learning, pupils must complete work-related experience or an industry challenge. They should base this on real work and projects should be around 100 to 150 notional learning hours.
What's next
Fill out our contact form and we'll connect you with your local learning provider who can talk to you about working with Foundation Apprenticeships.