FOUNDATION APPRENTICESHIPS

This year, we welcomed the launch of a new pathway to help young people progress into jobs or further education: the foundation apprenticeship.

Designed specifically for school leavers and others who aren’t quite ready for an apprenticeship, this is an exciting innovation in the world of further education. Here are the answers to some frequently asked questions about foundation apprenticeships.

What is a foundation apprenticeship?

Foundation apprenticeships are entry-level, paid positions which combine training with real-world work experience. They help young people who might not be ready to start a standard apprenticeship after they leave school, helping them gain skills and qualifications for specific industries. 

Whilst on a foundation apprenticeship, which currently lasts for eight months, the participant will develop technical knowledge and skills through valuable work experience, and also get workplace skills and qualifications in English and maths, if they haven’t already achieved them. Importantly, foundation apprentices are provided with extensive support to achieve and learn in a structured manner.

How is a foundation apprenticeship different from a level 2 apprenticeship?

Foundation apprenticeships are entry-level (Level 2 or below) and provide a high level of structured support to help young people get accustomed to training and developing their skills. Standard apprenticeships, on the other hand, range from Level 2 to 5 or higher. Like foundation apprenticeships, they are employed positions, but they are more suited to those who are accustomed to independent learning and who are focused on developing specific industry skills. Foundation apprenticeships can be part-time, whilst standard apprenticeships are usually full-time.

Foundation apprenticeships are typically a stepping stone to standard apprenticeships, further education or employment. They focus on providing foundational skills and experience, without the pressures of standard apprenticeships. In this way, the individual has time to adjust to training and the workplace slowly, developing the work skills that employers are looking for.

Why were foundation apprenticeships introduced?

Foundation apprenticeships have been introduced to address a skills shortage in key industries. And importantly, they are a way to help school leavers and other young people transition into the workplace. Some individuals have found it challenging to secure a level 2 apprenticeship without gaining some work experience and developing workplace skills first. So, a foundation apprenticeship is an excellent option for them.

Are foundation apprenticeships available now?

Because foundation apprenticeships are still very new, there aren’t many places offering them yet. However, more opportunities will become available very soon, including in the Liverpool City Region. Therefore, it’s a good idea to check online resources, such as LCR Be More and Skills England, for updates.

Who can do a foundation apprenticeship?

Foundation apprenticeships are for those aged 16 to 21 who want to gain practical skills and experience but don’t feel ready for a standard apprenticeship or to start work. They are perfect for those who did not meet the minimum requirements in English and maths while at school. 

Some young people aged 22-24 are also eligible for a foundation apprenticeship in certain circumstances, such as if they are leaving care.

What types of foundation apprenticeships are available?

Whilst foundation apprenticeships aren’t widely available yet, soon more employers, colleges and training organisations will start to offer them. So far, seven foundation apprenticeships have been developed:

• Building service engineering
• Finishing trades
• Onsite trades
• Hardware, network and infrastructure
• Software and data
• Engineering and manufacturing
• Health and social care

Foundation apprenticeships are relatively new and are likely to expand into more areas over time. You can check exactly what someone on a foundation apprenticeship learns on the Skills England website.

What are the benefits of doing a foundation apprenticeship?

Doing a foundation apprenticeship offers the following benefits:

• Gain work experience 
• Gain workplace or employability skills – the skills employers are looking for
• Get an industry-recognised qualification 
• Increase chances of getting a full-time job
• Boost confidence
• Develop the mindset to progress to more specialised training
• Obtain maths and/or English qualifications

What happens after I finish a foundation apprenticeship?

After completing a foundation apprenticeship, participants progress to a standard apprenticeship, a different course, or into a job.