Foundation Apprenticeships
EmployerThis article sits within the Employer sectionWhat are they?
Foundation apprenticeships are jobs with training at Level 2 that provide a broad curriculum focusing on job-specific knowledge and skills, while also developing employability skills and behaviours to support the transition from education to work.
They offer entry-level occupational competence and support employers in key sectors to meet their current and future skills needs.
When they start
The first foundation apprenticeships will be available from August 2025 in:
- Construction and the built environment
- Engineering and manufacturing
- Health and Social Care
- Digital
Funding
We fund foundation apprenticeships in the same way as all other apprenticeships. You can find more information in the funding rules.
Age and duration
- Foundation apprenticeships will be available for young people aged 16-21 and up to 25 for those with an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), are a care leaver or prisoner/prison leaver
- Foundation apprenticeships have a minimum duration of 8 months, in line with other apprenticeships. The minimum hours of study for each foundation apprenticeship will be set out in each standard
English and maths requirements
Young people aged 16-18 who do not hold a Level 1 or Level 2 English and maths qualification will be required to study towards the relevant qualification. More detail can be found within the funding rules.
Employer incentive
Employers can receive up to £2,000 to help with the costs of taking on a young person for a foundation apprenticeship and supporting their progression.
We pay this in three instalments throughout the foundation apprenticeship, with the final payment made when an apprentice progresses onto their next apprenticeship.
More detail can be found within the funding rules.
Progression
On achievement of a foundation apprenticeship, an apprentice can progress onto a more specific or higher-level apprenticeship. The duration of that apprenticeship may be reduced to take into account the prior learning or experience obtained from the foundation apprenticeship. The next apprenticeship must still have a remaining duration of at least 8 months and comply with off-the-job training requirements.
Each new occupational standard will make possible progression routes clear.
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