Foundation Apprenticeship
Closing the gap between the classroom and the workplace.
(FA) are work-based learning opportunities for young people at school. The aim is to give young people earlier experience of the world of work, by introducing them to industry much earlier, increasing their awareness of employer requirements and opening up their career choices whilst still at school.
FAs are delivered over 1 or 2 years depending on the specific framework. S6 pupils may be able to complete the programme in 1 year.
Current Frameworks
SCQF Level 4
- Automotive Engineering
- Construction
- Hospitality
SCQF Level 6
- Business Skills
- Engineering
- Social Services Children & Young People
- Social Services and Healthcare
- Creative & Digital Media
- Food & Drink Technologies
FA Recognition for University and College Admission
FA Recognition for University and College Admission
All Scottish universities now recognise SCQF Level 6 Foundation Apprenticeships (FA) as part of their entry criteria at the same level as Scottish Highers.
The University of the Highlands and Islands for example are recognising the FA as equivalent to 2 Scottish Highers. This will vary between institutions, so it is advisable to check with the individual universities on their entry requirements.
The Scottish universities currently recognising Foundation Apprenticeships as part of their entrance criteria can be found here:
The Scottish colleges currently recognising Foundation Apprenticeships as part of their entrance criteria can be found here:
Where specified subjects are required for entry to a degree programme (for example Maths and Physics for entry to Engineering), the Foundation Apprenticeship in Engineering will not replace that requirement but will count as one of the additional subjects making up the total complement of qualifications (and in the case quoted for Engineering, an Engineering Foundation Apprenticeship would positively enhance that application).
There are a few exceptions noted by institutions (e.g. the FA will not be accepted at the University of Glasgow or Edinburgh for Law, Medicine and Veterinary Medicine at this point, but will be reviewed).