Foundation apprenticeships in England

What are foundation apprenticeships?

Foundation apprenticeships are entry‑level programmes designed for people who need more preparation before starting full occupational training. Sitting at the very beginning of the apprenticeship pathway, they provide a structured introduction to the world of work, helping you:

• build confidence
• explore different career routes
• develop essential employability skills

They don't replace existing Level 2 apprenticeships. Instead, they act as a stepping stone for learners who would benefit from extra support or time to understand which career direction suits them best.

It's worth noting that these programmes differ from Scottish foundation apprenticeships, which are school‑based. In England, foundation apprenticeships are employer‑led, post‑16 opportunities based primarily in the workplace. Welsh foundation apprenticeships are similar to those in England.

Who are foundation apprenticeships for?

These programmes are suitable for anyone who needs more experience or support before progressing into a full apprenticeship. You might consider a foundation apprenticeship if you are:

• exploring a new occupation before committing long‑term
• leaving school or college and unsure about your next step
• not yet meeting the entry requirements for higher‑level apprenticeships
• starting your career and looking for a supported transition into work.

You can participate up to the age of 24 if you are a care leaver, have an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), or are in prison or recently released.

Unlike traineeships, foundation apprenticeships are paid roles with a contract of employment.

If you're still unsure about your long-term prospects, consider whether to go to university or do an apprenticeship.

How do foundation apprenticeships work?

Foundation apprenticeships combine paid work with structured training delivered by a registered training provider. Programmes last a minimum of eight months and may include:

• day release - one day a week spent at a college or training centre
• block training - longer periods of training before returning to the workplace.

During the apprenticeship, you'll:

• develop core skills such as communication, teamwork and problem solving
• explore whether a particular career path is right for you
• gain confidence and experience in real work environments
• learn sector-specific skills.

For example, on the building services engineering foundation apprenticeship at Hopwood Hall College, you'll develop a blend of technical and job-ready skills, including:

• employability skills and behaviours - including communication, professionalism, teamwork, adaptability and safe working practices
• technical knowledge - covering health and safety responsibilities, how systems such as heating, cooling, air quality and fire prevention operate, the use of tools and materials, and how to carry out basic system checks
• technical skills - such as understanding regulations, using tools correctly and maintaining workplace signage.

Foundation apprenticeships are designed to build your confidence and prepare you for the workplace with skills that employers value.

For instance, the hardware, network and infrastructure foundation apprenticeship with Achievement Training introduces you to the fundamentals of keeping IT systems running smoothly. You'll also gain an introduction to artificial intelligence (AI) and explore how it’s used in real‑world IT environments.

For more information, read our essential guide to apprenticeships.

What are the entry requirements?

There are no formal qualification requirements. To start a foundation apprenticeship, you must:

• be aged 16 or over
• be able to commit to the minimum duration of the programme
• have the right to work in the UK
• live in England
• not be in full-time education.

Some employers may also ask for basic literacy or numeracy skills.

What foundation apprenticeships are available?

Opportunities are available across a range of sectors, including:

• building service engineering
• engineering and manufacturing
• finishing trades
• hardware, network and infrastructure
• health and social care
• onsite trades
• software and data.

You can view a full list of approved foundation apprenticeships through Skills England.

How do I find a foundation apprenticeship?

You can search for opportunities at:

• Prospects - Search apprenticeships
• Apprenticeships.gov - Browse apprenticeships
• GOV.UK - Find an apprenticeship
• UCAS - Search apprenticeships

Availability varies by region and sector, so it’s also worth checking:

• careers services
• employer websites
• local training providers.

How do I apply?

Applications usually involve:

• submitting a CV
• attending an interview
• taking part in a trial or taster day (in some cases).

Employers look for enthusiasm and a genuine interest in the role. You may be asked scenario‑based questions to assess your:

• communication
• problem solving
• teamwork skills.

Careers advisers and your school or college support teams can help you prepare your application.

You can apply for multiple vacancies, but you can only be enrolled on one apprenticeship at a time.

Discover how to apply for an apprenticeship or see our example apprenticeship cover letter.

How much will I be paid as a foundation apprentice?

Foundation apprenticeships follow the same pay rules as all apprenticeships in England. From April 2025, employers must pay at least:

• £7.55 per hour for your first year
• the National Minimum Wage (NMW) for your age group after the first year.

This means that apprentices aged between 18 and 20‑years‑old will earn £10 per hour, while apprentices aged 21 and over will earn a minimum of £12.21 per hour.

It doesn't cost you anything to do a foundation apprenticeship - training costs are fully government‑funded. Many employers also offer higher wages or additional support, such as travel bursaries or equipment.

Discover the best paying apprenticeship sectors in 2026.

How many hours will I work?

Most foundation apprenticeships are full time, typically between 30 and 37 hours per week, although some employers may offer part‑time options. Your week is usually divided between:

• paid work
• off-the-job training, which must make up at least 20% of your working hours.

For example, on the onsite trades foundation apprenticeship with AccXel, you'll spend one day a week on a purpose‑built mock construction site that replicates real working conditions. The remaining four days are spent with an employer on live construction projects, allowing you to build practical skills and gain hands‑on experience alongside industry professionals.

How are foundation apprenticeships assessed?

Foundation apprenticeships do not usually involve a formal exam. Instead, assessment takes place either throughout the programme or during a dedicated assessment period at the end. This typically includes:

• a portfolio or evidence log
• feedback from your trainer and employer
• workplace observations.

For example, on the health and social care foundation apprenticeship with Pier Training, an independent assessor will observe you carrying out your normal duties and review evidence of the knowledge, skills and behaviours you've developed to demonstrate that you’ve met the apprenticeship standard.

The engineering and manufacturing foundation apprenticeship at Askham Bryan College also includes an end‑point assessment, which involves:

• a practical observation
• a professional discussion, which is a chance to explain your decision‑making, reflect on your performance and show your understanding of the role.

You'll be awarded a pass or fail grade.

If you're aged 16 to 18 and haven't achieved GCSE English or maths (or equivalent), you'll study these subjects alongside your apprenticeship. For learners aged 19 and over, this is optional.

What can you do after a foundation apprenticeship?

Although a job offer isn't guaranteed, completing a foundation apprenticeship can open up a range of opportunities for progression. Depending on your interests and the sector you’ve trained in, you could:

• move into a full Level 2 or Level 3 advanced apprenticeship
• apply for entry‑level employment
• continue with further education
• use your experience to make a more informed career decision.

For example, after completing the health and social care foundation apprenticeship with Pier Training, you could progress to these apprenticeships:

• Level 2 adult care worker
• Level 2 healthcare support worker
• Level 3 senior healthcare support worker.

Progression routes vary by sector. For instance:

• building services engineering learners may move into a trade apprenticeship such as bricklaying or electrical installation
• engineering and manufacturing apprentices may move on to a T Level in engineering, manufacturing, processing and control, and later progress to a Higher National Certificate (HNC) in manufacturing engineering
• software and data apprentices may progress to a Level 3 IT support technician role.

In some cases, you may be able to move into a higher‑level apprenticeship before completing the full foundation programme, provided both you and your employer agree.

Find out more

• Discover everything you need to know about apprenticeships.
• Gain experience in a new sector through skills bootcamps.
• Explore how to choose a career.