Starting work can feel like a big step, especially if you do not have previous experience or know exactly which career you want to follow.
Foundation apprenticeships have been introduced to give more young people an accessible way to begin their careers, earn a wage and develop valuable workplace skills.
They are paid, entry-level jobs that combine real work with structured training.
Who can start a foundation apprenticeship?
Foundation apprenticeships are mainly available to young people aged 16 to 21 in England.
Young people aged 22 to 24 may also be eligible if they:
• Have an Education, Health and Care plan
• Are in care or have previously been in care
• Are currently in prison or leaving prison
You do not need previous work experience or qualifications to apply.
This makes a foundation apprenticeship particularly useful if you are looking for your first job, have found it difficult to access other apprenticeships or want additional support as you move into employment.
Which industries are available?
Foundation apprenticeships are currently available across six broad areas:
• Construction and the built environment
• Digital
• Engineering and manufacturing
• Health and social care
• Catering and hospitality
• Retail, supply and administration
Instead of training for one very specific job from the beginning, you will develop broader knowledge of your chosen industry.
This gives you an opportunity to experience the workplace, explore different roles and decide which direction might suit you.
What will you learn?
A foundation apprenticeship will help you develop practical skills for your chosen industry alongside important workplace skills.
These can include communication, teamwork, problem-solving and resilience.
You will learn through a combination of experience with your employer and off-the-job training. A foundation apprenticeship will normally last at least eight months and include a minimum of 187 hours of off-the-job learning.
If you are aged 16 to 18 and have not already achieved the required English and maths qualifications, you will receive support to continue working towards them.
Will you be paid?
Yes. A foundation apprenticeship is a paid job, rather than an unpaid course or work experience placement.
You will earn a wage, receive training and have the employment rights that apply to apprentices. Your exact salary and working hours will be included in the vacancy before you apply.
What happens when you finish?
A foundation apprenticeship is designed to be the beginning of your career journey.
After completing the programme, you may be able to progress to a more specialised apprenticeship at the same level or move on to a higher-level apprenticeship.
The knowledge and experience you have already gained could also help you complete your next apprenticeship more quickly.
How can you apply?
Foundation apprenticeship vacancies are advertised through the government’s Find an Apprenticeship service.
You can search by location and industry, read the requirements for each vacancy and apply for opportunities that interest you.
Do not worry if you have not decided on your entire career yet. A foundation apprenticeship is designed to help you take that important first step, explore an industry and build the confidence you need to progress.
