Learning Providers Foundation Apprenticeships

There are 12 different Foundation Apprenticeships available to study at SCQF Level 6. That's the same level as a Higher. They include Business Skills, Engineering and Creative and Digital Media.

There are also 3 available at SCQF Level 4/5 at some schools as part of a pilot. That's the same level as a National 4 or National 5. They are Automotive, Construction and Hospitality.

A framework describes a type of apprenticeship and what is in it. The framework sets out the skills, knowledge and competencies needed within the apprenticeship.

Example frameworks include Foundation Apprenticeship Business Skills, Modern Apprenticeship Fashion and Textiles, Graduate Apprenticeship Civil Engineering.

There are more than 100 apprenticeship frameworks, covering a huge range of jobs. Frameworks cover:

• the SCQF level

• the qualifications the apprentice will gain

• core skills included

• entry requirements

• how long it takes

• details of any industry-specific training

Skills Development Scotland (SDS) funds Local Authority and Independent Learning Providers’ delivery of Foundation Apprenticeships. Foundation Apprenticeships that are delivered through colleges are funded by the Scottish Funding Council (SFC).

Foundation Apprentices are usually young people in S4 or S5 who are selecting their subject choices, so they find out about their options at school. Their teachers and careers advisers can support them and give them information.

Learning providers work with local authorities to raise awareness of Foundation Apprenticeships to teachers and promote the opportunities to learners and parents.

Every year, we award contracts to learning providers for Foundation Apprenticeships.

Here’s how to prepare for your contract activation, from your Award letter to recruitment and beyond.